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Is there anything that people can do to save the planet?

We depend on nature for everything from air, water, food and shelter to sources of energy to run our factories and businesses. So, conserving nature and preserving its biodiversity must be our priority. Here are ten simple tips to do your bit for the planet.

1. Plant trees

Trees are carbon sequesters and increasing the tree cover is perhaps one of the easiest ways to conserve nature. A tree can absorb approximately 25kg of CO2 per year. So, plant a tree to mark this day. Make it a tradition to plant a tree during prominent or celebratory occasions of your life. It can be your birthday or when you finish your academic year or any moment you feel is worth celebrating. If you do not have enough space in your home, see if you can adopt your friend’s yard or make use of the space managed by your area’s residents’ association. Where you do it, make sure that the plant is taken care of Encourage friends and family to take up the practice as well.

2. Conserve energy

 We derive our energy from nature. Everything that is manmade runs on energy obtained from nature. Quite often, a lot of energy also goes to waste. By changing a few habits you can help save energy at home. These include small actions such as turning off the lights (when not in use or when you can depend on daylight), unplugging appliances when not in use, not charging your phone overnight, turning off your faucet when you aren’t using water, taking less time in the shower, reusing waste water in the kitchen gardens and so on. This will help reduce carbon footprint and in turn help in conserving nature. PHOTO: UNSPLASH IMAGES

3.3Rs

The 3Rs of “Reduce”, “Reuse”, “Recycle” is perhaps one of the ultimate mantras for nature conservation. These three small words will help manage waste, save the ecosystem, prevent marine animal casualties and address climate change. The first step is to reduce the waste you generate. This will ensure that less waste ends up in landfills or oceans. Effective waste segregation is the key to this. This helps recover materials for recycling and composting. Reuse articles that you can. And lastly, recycle. This helps prevent soil and water pollution. PHOTO: UNSPLASH IMAGES

4. Use public transport

 One of the major polluters is the global transport sector. It is responsible for approximately one-quarter of greenhouse gas emissions, according to experts. And 95% of the world’s transport energy is still obtained from fossil fuels. Personal transportation adds to the probelm, adding to the greenhouse emissions. The easiest way to avoid this is by switching to public transport. If this is not a practical solution every time, you can still choose public transport twice or thrice a week or during specific hours. This, when done on a regular basis, can significantly help reduce carbon emissions. Alternately, switching to green modes of travel such as a bicycle can help prevent your carbon footprint.

5. Stop using single-use plastics and disposables

 Single-use plastics and disposable cups and utensils have infiltrated our day-to-day life and upended it. Those disposable grocery bags and disposable utensils you use eventually ends up on the earth, polluting our soil. oceans, and marine life. These disposables can easily be replaced with environmentally responsible counterparts. Make a commitment to take out at least one disposable article from your lifestyle. Perhaps. carry a cloth bag to the supermarket instead of asking them for a plastic one. Maybe switch out your lunch box for one made of metal. This can be a good start. And slowly you can make a lifestyle switch by eschewing other disposables. PHOTO: UNSPLASH IMAGES

6. Eat less meat

It is estimated that 80% of forest loss is caused by the conversion of forest land to agricultural land. It leads to habitat destruction and loss of our green cover. Eating less meat can help prevent this and preserve biodiversity and the ecosystem. Since we all have our food preferences, it may not be easy to switch to vegetarianism or veganism. But you can be more aware and mindful of the food on your plate and choose to eat less meat. For instance. you can limit meat consumption to one or two days a week or reduce the number of meals with meat. PHOTO: UNSPLASH IMAGES

7. Use windows and not AC

 Our world is heating up and the surging heat has made us all dependent on air conditioning, the demand for which is increasing by the day. Did you know that air conditioners are also a contributor to the climate crisis? They consume more electricity than any other appliance in your home and consume about 10% of global electricity (along with electric fans). So next time, when possible, open the windows and let the cool breeze in.

8. Explore thrifting

 Fast fashion is one of the greatest threats to the environment. Did you know that it takes about 2,700 litres of water to make just one t-shirt. Or that a pair of jeans requires 7,600 litres of water? With a consumer base that updates its wardrobe according to trends in the fashion industry, the damage to the planet has been exponential. This trend depletes natural resources and harms the planet. This is where thrift shopping comes in. Anyone who has had an older sibling would be no stranger to using their toys, books, or school paraphernalia, thus giving the article a fresh lease of life. This is the concept of thrift shopping. It means using hand-me-downs or second-hand articles. It applies to all forms of merchandise such as clothes, games, toys, shoes, books, appliances, furniture, and so on. It’s time to break the cycle of single-use apparel or appliances and shop at thrift stores. Also, remember to let your friends and family know you are using a thrifted article and the positive impact your move has on nature’s conservation.

9. Embrace minimalism

 Minimalism is a lifestyle choice where you make mindful, deliberate choices of buying only what you truly need. As such you make do with less and avoid overconsumption, which is one of the major contributors to the exploitation and depletion of natural resources. By consuming only what’s essential for your living, your ecological footprint gets reduced. Thereby, the individual environmental impact is limited. Replace consumerism with eco-minimalism. PHOTO: UNSPLASH IMAGES

10. Spend time volunteering

 One way to help conserve nature is to help organisations that are working in the field directly. You can do this by volunteering your time and services at non-profit environmental organisations. These organisations run on donations and they are always on the lookout for people who can help them. Here you may get to actively participate in the community and work on projects aimed at conserving nature and get on-field experience.

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What is Erich Maria Remarque’s purpose for writing ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’?

Erich Maria Remarque’s ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ stands tall as a paramount piece of anti-war literature, capturing the harrowing tale of a generation vanquished by World War 1. The first-ever non English adaptation of this literary masterpiece is honoured with nine Academy Award nominations this year. Let us revisit this classic and see what makes it relevant today.

About the author

Erich Maria Remarque was born in Osnabruck, Germany, in 1898 into a lower-middle-class family. As a young man of 18, he was pursuing higher education at the University of Munster when fate intervened and drafted him (along with a number of his classmates) into the German army. Amidst the turmoil of war, he discovered his passion for storytelling and began writing fiction.

After six months of military training, his unit was sent to the Western Front. The horrors of World War (1914-1918) cast a long shadow on Remarque’s writing, shaping him into the author he would become. He found himself thrust into the trenches of Flanders. Belgium and experienced the brutal reality of trench warfare firsthand. In 1917, he was injured by the fierce barrage of British artillery, and a year later was sent back to the front lines, post-recovery. It was during his recovery that Remarque thought of writing a novel about the war. He gathered material for his book from personal stories sent by his friends from the battlefield and also interviewed wounded soldiers, to come up with authentic scenes for his story. Shortly thereafter a revolution led to the overthrow of Germany’s imperial government and the establishment of a republic. On November 11, 1918, the newly- formed government signed a formal agreement with the Allies, effectively bringing an end to the fighting. These wartime events, coupled with the loss of some of his comrades, left a profound impact on Remarque, inspiring him to pen his most influential novel, ‘Im Westen Nichts Neues’. Published in Germany in 1929, Remarque’s literary masterpiece sold over 1.2 million copies within a year, solidifying his place as one of Germany’s most celebrated writers. The English translation of this novel, ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ was published in the same year and garnered similar success. It went on to be translated into more than 20 languages and was made into a celebrated Hollywood film in 1930.

What makes it a classic?

The horrors of war

The novel describes the physical and emotional toll that war tikes on soldiers, and highlights the senseless violence and destruction that war creates. It is the author’s attempt to highlight and document how despite dodging death in the trenches and making it back home, a soldier’s soul is irreversibly crushed by what he witnessed at the war front.

Today, as conflicts (like the Russian invasion of Ukraine) continue to occur around the world the novel serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the need for peaceful solutions to conflicts.

Dehumanisation of soldiers

The soldiers in the novel are forced to abandon their individuality and become part of a machine-like military system. This is still relevant today, as soldiers continue to face the challenge of maintaining their own identity in the face of military discipline. One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the way it depicts the soldiers as being treated as expendable objects, rather than human beings with lives, families, and aspirations.

They are constantly reminded of their duty to the state and the importance of sacrifice. The book describes how the trauma and the unspeakable acts of violence soldiers witness on the battlefield transform them into brute tools of war, devoid of humanity.

Disillusionment

The novel also explores the theme of disillusionment. As the war drags on, Paul and his comrades become increasingly disillusioned with the ideals of patriotism and duty that drove them to enlist in the first place. They realise that they have been fed lies and propaganda to justify a war that has only brought them suffering and death. The novel also portrays the difficulty of these soldiers in returning to civilian life after the war, as Paul struggles to reconnect with a society that does not understand or appreciate the sacrifices he and his fellow soldiers made.

In this way, this German classic highlights the devastating effects of war on both the individual and society as a whole and serves as a powerful critique of the glorification of war and how it is justified as nationalism.

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What makes a documentary?

Documentaries are a realistic portrayal of life events based on facts, are regarded as ‘historical records, and often utilised for educating viewers on certain critical areas. The documentary ‘An Inconvenient’ Truth deserves a special mention for portraying the deadly effects of global warming to caution people.

The entire world is fascinated with films, and the advent of social media has made it easy for anyone with a smartphone to create videos and upload them to the Internet, so much so that reels and short videos have become a rage today. Our teacher deliberately took a detour to talk about films in order to drive home to us the distinction between feature films and documentary films; we were under the impression that ‘film’ referred only to the feature film.

Adding to our confusion was the expression ‘cinema’ which referred to three things-film, filmmaking, and the building wherein films are screened. She pointed out, “All these are used interchangeably now, and people understand it depending upon the context. Films, more than anything else, truly globalised the world even before the concept of globalisation was known widely.”

At the initial stages, she mentioned, the term ‘film’ referred only to a motion picture which has taken various forms now, such as short films, indie films, art films, experimental or avant-garde films, commercial films, animated films, and documentary films. One feature that is common to all, except the last category, is that they have a storyline and are mostly enacted by professionals. But documentaries are made by anyone with an imaginative bent of mind, with or without a budget. Documentaries are always a realistic portrayal of life events based on facts, are regarded as ‘historical records, and often utilised for educating viewers on certain critical areas.

Although documentaries are based on factual details, they share certain similarities with feature films: writing a script (based on serious research into a subject), developing an interesting narrative around it, involving real people, shooting, and editing. Documentaries also, like feature films, should offer an interesting experience to audiences, otherwise they would fall flat.

Documentaries deal with a wide-ranging aspect of people’s lives – cultural, social, psychological, economic, racial, gender, poverty, illiteracy, homelessness, other concerns, such as technology, plastics, pollution, education, addiction, parenting, sports, and anything else that would capture people’s attention. They also lay emphasis on instructing people and persuading them to take some kind of action; not merely entertaining people as feature films often do. Some of the top-grossing documentaries made so far have dealt with themes such as gun violence, the healthcare industry, and events such as behind-the-scenes preparation for Michael Jackson’s 50th concert and the aftermath of the 9/11 attack-exemplifying their vast canvas.

An Inconvenient Truth, among all, deserves a special mention – Al Gore, former Vice-President of the U.S., portrayed the deadly effects of global warming to caution people. He emerged as a global crusader and conscientised people across the globe; till then activists were merely talking about it in a muffled voice. The full text of this documentary has been archived on the Internet and those interested in making documentaries can get a feel of it.

Finally she said, sometimes documentaries are confused with reportage but there is a distinction: reportage is described as reporting of news by journalists for television, radio, or newspaper. In reportage, text is important, which is supported by images, but for documentaries both are of equal significance to narrate a story.

We imagined that only feature films have theatrical releases, but in recent times, she pointed out, documentaries also have such releases but not many get released. Besides, several awards have been instituted for the category of documentaries as a way of recognition, like feature films, in different countries, including Academy Awards in the U.S. popularly known as the Oscars, European Film Awards, and Hot Docs Audience Awards in Canada.

Happy making documentaries/ videos / reels! she wished us as she wrapped up her speech.

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Who wrote the book The Story of Doctor Dolittle?

British-American author Hugh Lofting crafted the fictional account chronicling the peculiar life and astonishing adventures of Dr Dolittle with the intention to entertain his children. Little did he know that these narratives will immortalise him in literary history. Let us revisit ‘The Story of Doctor Dolittle’ and see what makes it a classic.

About the author

Hugh John Lofting was one of six children born to Elizabeth Agnes and John Brien Lofting on January 14, 1886, in Maidenhead, Berkshire, England. His love for animals and storytelling was evident from a very young age. As a child, he loved concocting stories for his family and is said to have used his mother's linen cupboard to store his miniature zoo and wildlife museum. He attended Jesuit boarding school before he went on to study civil engineering and architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and London Polytechnic. As a civil engineer, he was constantly travelling to new places. His job took him to Canada, Africa, and the West Indies, before he returned to America in 1912, married Flora Small, and settled in New York City to begin a writing career.

A coping mechanism

In 1916, Lofting enlisted to fight for England in World War I. Instead of destressing his family with the gory details of what he witnessed on the battlefields, Lofting chose to write imaginative letters (complete with illustrations) detailing the astonishing adventures of Doctor Dolittle to entertain his children. Researchers speculate that gifting the character of Dolittle a special ability to communicate with animals was Lofting's coping mechanism to deal with the animal cruelty he witnessed in the trenches.

At the 1967 premiere of the story's big screen adaptation, Christopher Lofting (the youngest son of the author) said, "There were thousands of cavalry horses in the war, and also farm animals and pets who got caught in the crossfire. My father invented Dolittle… as a superhero who could do things he could not do."

The first book in the Doctor Dolittle series, titled ‘The Story of Doctor Dolittle’ was published in 1920, three years after Lofting was wounded and invalided out of the war.

The Story of Doctor Dolittle

The book follows John Dolittle, a reputed English country doctor who lives in a little town called Puddleby-on-the-Marsh He transitions from human medicine to veterinary practice after he is taught how to communicate with animals by his parrot. Polynesia, Risking a stable income and losing most of his patients do not dissuade him from going to Africa to cure a monkey epidemic. This book chronicles the peculiar life of Doctor Dolittle and his misadventures with a crew of animals that he befriends.

What makes it a classic?

The importance of communication

Through the interactions between Doctor Dolittle and his animal friends, the story highlights how important effective communication is in resolving day-to-day problems and conflicts. The unique personalities and perspectives of the diverse cast of animal characters in the story emphasise the importance of keeping an open mind and valuing other individuals' opinions.

 Empathy and compassion

The compelling narrative of this book promotes animal welfare, teaches empathy, and encourages us to think about the importance of treating all living beings with respect and kindness. It also presents an opportunity to address the treatment of animals and the need for their conservation, an idea which is all the more important because of the climate crisis at hand.

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What are the contributions of Prof. Ashoke Sen?

We meet another theoretical physicist who works on string theory. Prof. Ashoke Sen is a distinguished professor at the Harish-Chandra Research Institute, Allahabad. He is also interested in black hole entropy. We have already seen black holes. Now, entropy is the measure of disorder in a system. Dr. Sen applied string theory to black hole entropy. He studied at IIT-Kanpur and got a doctorate from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, U.S.A.

He has authored and co-authored many important papers on string field theory. Prof. Sen holds the position of Honorary Fellow in the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar. He is also a Morning- star visiting professor at MIT and a distinguished professor at the Korea Institute for Advanced Study.

Prof. Sen was one of the nine winners of the first Fundamental Physics prize started by Russian billionaire Yuri Milner – each of the winners getting $ 3 million. This is twice the amount of the Nobel prize. He was nominated as a Fellow of the Royal Society, won the Padma Shri and was a recipient of the Bhatnagar Award in 1994.

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What made Ganesan Venkatasubramanian famous?

Ganesan Venkatasubramanian is a professor of psychiatry at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru. (NIMHANS). His areas of interest are schizophrenia, transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), brain imaging, neuroimmu nology, neurometabolism and other areas of biological psychiatry.

He hails from Tamil Nadu and did his MBBS from Stanley Medical College. He completed MD and Ph.D in Psychiatry from NIMHANS. He was a clinical research fellow under Sean Spence in the University of Sheffield. Sean Spence developed the first brain scan lie detector. He was thus trained in advanced brain imaging techniques.

Venkatasubramanian’s brilliant achievements in the field of psychiatry brought him many awards and recognitions. He received the Young Scientist Award at the 12th Biennial International Winter Workshop on Schizophrenia in Switzerland in 2004 and the Elsevier Scopus Young Scientist Award for Medicine in 2006. He won three awards in 2009 namely, the Young Psychiatrist Award of the Indian Psychiatric Society, Shakuntala Amir Chand Prize of the ICMR and the Young Scientist Medal of the Indian National Science Academy. He also got the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science and Technology in 2018.

He is in the editorial committee of the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine and Asian Journal of Psychiatry published by Elsevier.

He is a member of the Indian Psychiatric Society and co-chaired its Biological Psychiatry section during 2010- 11.

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Why is ATMA Atyrau Airport special?

Located 8 km northwest of Atyrau in Kazakhstan, the ATMA Atyrau Airport is the lowest international commercial airport in the world. It is 22 m below sea level and is the only airport in Atyrau.

In 1994, the company named ATMA got the operational rights of the airport when it was privatised as a build and operate model. In 2007, the company completed the construction of the new terminal building along with a new, longer runway. The terminal has a total area of 2,000 square metres and can serve 600 passengers in an hour. As per data available, it was the 5th busiest airport in Kazakhstan in 2009, where 937,032 passengers passed through the airport.

The airport and its surrounding areas are crucial for Kazakhstan’s economy because of the oil exploration sites and platforms on the Caspian Sea that are located nearby. The city is the base town for the oil and construction companies of the region.

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What is the story of Pandora’s box? What is the most important message of Pandora’s box?

Is curiosity a blessing or a curse? The paradoxical nature of this trait is personified in Greek mythology by the tale of Pandora, the woman whose blazing curiosity set a chain of Earth-shattering events.

The birth of Pandora

Pandora was breathed to life by the God of fire. Hephestus, who called for gifts from his divine companions to make his creation extraordinary.

The pantheon of Gods blessed her with her name, a capacity for deep emotion, and creativity. Finally, when Zeus’s turn came, he blessed the mortal with not one but two gifts.

First was the trait of curiosity and the second was a heavy sealed box which came with a warning that she must never open it under any circumstances. Pandora’s life on Earth brimmed with excitement, but her thirst for knowledge often made her wonder about the contents of the sealed box. Her wandering mind was often plagued by the question: What treasure was so great that it could never be seen by mortals? And why was it in her care?

Mystery of the box

The mystery of the box was madding to the point that she was convinced that she heard the contents rattling around inside, trying to get free.

One day she could bear it no longer. As she opened the lid, monstrous screeching creatures were let loose. Turns out Zeus had used the box as a vessel to imprison every calamity and evil being that was ever created.

Crippling anxiety took hold of her as she helplessly tried to direct these creatures back into the box. All seemed lost until a warm beam of light arose from the vessel and a tiny butterfly fluttered away easing Pandora’s mind. This beautiful creature was hope. Ever since then humans have been able to hold on to hope in order to thrive in the darkest hours and to endure and overcome the hardships in life.

In modern times…

The term Pandora’s box refers to the extreme consequences of tampering with the unknown.

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Monarchy & Shakespeare

Royal patronage bestowed upon Shakespeare’s Globe theatre the prestige, and popularity it required to reach a wider audience. This is the reason why literary critics believe that Macbeth which is easily one of the greatest plays written by the bard was skillfully designed to flatter the reigning monarch King James I.

King James I succeeded Queen Elizabeth I as the royal head of the nation following the latters death in 1603. Known for his love for art and generosity towards actors, playwrights and other performers of the day, within ten days of ascending to the throne he offered his patronage to Shakespeare’s acting troupe, which the bard graciously accepted. Overjoyed by the sanction of the royal patent, the legendary playwright changed the name of his troupe to The King’s men, in honour of the reigning monarch.

The role of a patron

A patron was usually a wealthy aristocrat or royal court official who would fund the playwright’s or artist’s work and livelihoods. Acting companies based in London at the time would also require their patrons to get them a licence to perform and this was the reason why many such companies would then be named after their benefactors.

Macbeth

Royal patronage bestowed upon Shakespeare’s Globe theatre the prestige, and popularity it required to reach a wider audience. These favours are the reason why literary critics believe that Macbeth which is easily one of the greatest plays written by the bard around 1606 (his first play under his new patron) and set in King James I’s native land of Scotland, was skilfully designed to flatter the king. It also featured like treason, revolt and downfall of the monarch’s murderers – legitimising the divine right of kings as dictated by the European Christianity of the time.

Shakespeare’s history plays

Ten plays that are referred to as Shakespeare’s history plays cover English history from the 12th to 16th Century and each of these is named after and revolves around, the reigning monarch of the period. These political plays were seen as patriotic exercises that celebrated past greatness and sympathised with the suffering of the bygone days. In An Apology for Actors (1612), Shakespeare’s contemporary Thomas Heywood wrote, that history plays are written with the aim to teach their subject obedience to their king. Some examples of these plays include Richard II, Hendry V, and Richard III. Although critics are still divided about whether or not the bard’s chronicle plays were merely tools of propaganda, one cannot deny the huge impact the works of this legendary wordsmith have had on our collective understanding of these historic figures.

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Carving a legacy

Since it was first written in the early 1880s, Italian author Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio has remained one of the most universally recognisable works of Italian literature. Let’s look at what has made this classic endure the test of time.

Between the Covers is a weekly column that introduces young readers to the world of literary classics. It focusses on one celebrated book each week and finds out what makes.

About the Author

Carlo Lorenzini was born November 24, 1826, in Florence, Tuscany. Both of his parents worked for the marchese (Italian nobleman) Ginori Lisci His mother Angiolina Orzali Lorenzini was a seamstress and his father Domenico Lorenzini was a cook. Carlo was the eldest of his 10 siblings and spent most of his childhood with his maternal grandmother in Collodi. At the age of 30, the Italian author and journalist adopted the pseudonym Carlo Collodi, after his beloved mothers hometown near Pistoia in Tuscany.

Today he is best known as the creative mind behind The Adventures of Pinocchio, a classic tale of a marionette child brought to life. This puppet is known for his long nose, which (only) on one occasion in the novel although more frequently in other adaptations) grows when he lies.

Pinocchio’s story was first published in 1881 in a serialised format in Giornale Dei Bambini (Italian for children’s magazine) before it was published as a novel in 1883. Collodi’s masterpiece is held as one of Italy’s literary national treasures and is credited with being one of the most iconic works of children’s literature of all time, inspiring plays, movies, and hundreds of new editions making the titular puppet one of the most reprinted characters in the pantheon of children’s literature. With its slapstick humour and instructive themes, The Adventures of Pinocchio was a turning point in Italian literature and commented on the pathetic conditions of the lower working class at the time, through the character of Geppetto. However, Disney’s 1940 adaptation of the Italian classic, critics say, censors, sugar coats, and trivialises Collodi’s original tale to present a very Americanised and domesticated version of Pinocchio’s story as “a paean to impossibly idealised childhood”.

Once upon a time…

A marionette called Pinocchio comes to life because it was carved out of a piece of enchanted wood by a carpenter named Geppetto. The life-affirming story chronicles the adventures of the titular character and elaborates how our hero rises above different kinds of temptations (such as leading a life of leisure in the land of toys) to become human.

What makes it a classic?

Transformation

This story shows how things can very quickly go from bad to worse, but also from terrible to wonderful through acts of kindness and how sometimes this much-needed kindness can come from strangers. In the story, we witness how Pinocchio (like most kids) suffers and learns from the compulsive habit or the insatiable need to do something he had been told not to do over and over again. The protagonists’ behaviour and inspiring journey from ignorance to knowledge is very relatable and helps us as readers redefine how we perceive the pitfalls of life.

The lure of temptations

The story has an eerie quality and a folklore-like nature. The authors use of the ideas of rebirth, ghosts, and fairies along with manipulative characters such as the fox, the cat, and the giant serpent demonstrates the power of temptations. Crafting a children’s story while talking about the base reality of existence through complex themes such as poverty, the difference between good and evil, child abuse, and the role of one’s conscience, Collodi emphasises how the difference between adult and children’s literature was quite an alien idea in Italian literary tradition at the time.

What is it to be human?

Pinocchio’s story brilliantly exemplifies the multiplicity of meaning in the written word as it tries to answer the intriguing question: What is it to be human?

Through this straightforward narrative, which is deceptively simple but truly complex, Collodi seems to suggest that being human is to expose oneself to the good, bad, and ugly realities of the world and gain wisdom through experience. Pinocchio becomes human when he is able to think freely and also weigh the consequences of his actions.

The relationship with the conscience

Clinical psychologist Dr. Jordan B Peterson says that the learning relationship that Pinocchio shares with the cricket (which stands in as a personification of the puppet’s conscience) demystifies the widely accepted idea of an omniscient or all-knowing conscience that can guide one to redemption, to suggest that in life, you and your conscience mature together through critically thinking and learning from the ebb and flow of life. This kind of growth is an indispensable part of our journey on this planet.

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The short life of a prolific storyteller

Guy de Maupassant is known for depicting human life, emotions and social forces and creating drama out of it. His birth anniversary was observed on August 5. Mathilde was born into a family of clerks. She largely despised her social setting, unable to enjoy all the luxuries of life. She dreamt of dainty dinners, shining silverware, gowns and jewels. Then one night, Mathilde gets an invitation to go to a party with her husband. She borrows a diamond necklace from her friend. But Mathilde loses it at the party. Instead of telling the truth, the duo replaces the necklace by buying a diamond necklace and end up working the rest of the years to pay for it, living a miserable life. You can always see a Mathilde if you look around, one who aspires to live above their station and later pays the price for it. Mathilde is a character in the short story “The Necklace” by Guy De Maupassant. But the story doesn’t end there.

The greatest reveal comes towards the end when Maupassant unveils with a flourish that the necklace is a fake. The friend tells Mathilde that it was paste jewellery and not real diamonds that she lost.

The short story is known for its twist ending and the irony of life. “The Necklace” is just one among the 300 short stories written by Maupassant. A master storyteller, Maupassant is considered the father of short story writing.

Maupassant is known for weaving narratives around human life, emotions and social forces and creating drama out of it. The life of the lower and middle classes figure as one of the central themes of his stories.

Maupassant studied law in Paris. The Franco-Prussian War broke out in 1870 while he was studying law and he enlisted himself in the army. This military experience would later on become fodder for many of his literary works. Some of his stories are set during the Franco-Prussian War and the narratives delve into the futility of war.

Maupassant underwent an informal apprenticeship under French novelist Gustave Flaubert which left a great influence on his literary career.

His stories were crafted in the naturalist style, meaning they are more realistic. With prose that is devoid of any frills, his writings are simple. His stories always delve into the many emotions of the human mind such as greed, ambition and desire. Apart from short stories, he wrote novels and travel books.

It was his short story ‘Boule de Suif (Ball of Fat) that first gained him attention.

Some of his famous short stories are the The Necklace’, The Horla’, The False Gems’, and ‘Useless Beauty’. He also worked in newspapers where his short stories were published. His works are said to have influenced writers such as O Henry, William Somerset Maugham, Anton Chekhov and so on.

Maupassant is regarded as one of the greatest storytellers the literary world has ever seen. Sadly, he died at the young age of 42.

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What are natural dyes?

As the name indicates, natural dyes are those obtained from naturally available sources. Though plants are among the most common sources of natural dyes, insects, fungi and minerals contribute too. As for plant sources, the options are plenty from leaves, seeds, and bark to flowers fruits, vegetables, and roots. And if you think the number of colours could be limited since they are of natural origin, here’s a little surprise for you- the variety is almost endless. Different shades of red, green, blue, purple, and brown can all be obtained naturally!

A few common sources

Cochineal and lac insects are a source for shades of red. While the former is used largely in textile, the latter is used in ornaments and for wood finish. Shellfish plays an important role as a natural source for shades of purple. The use of all three goes back at least a few centuries.

One of the oldest and most widely used, indigo comes from a variety of flowering plants of the genus indigofera, and it’s believed to have been in use since prehistoric times. Pomegranate rind, turmeric, onion skin, tamarind seed, myrobalan fruit, marigold, bluebellvine flower, annatto seed, teak leaf, and madder root are some of the sources of natural dyes. These dyes have a wide variety of application.

Where are natural dyes used?

Many Indian textile traditions originally used only natural colours-while some may embrace synthetic colours now, some continue the tradition. Such traditions include ajrakh and kalamkari. In addition, several everyday products, including soaps, bags, and baskets, lend themselves to natural dyes.

Since synthetic colours have been proven to cause skin and health concerns, natural dyes offer a much safer alternative for use in food, cosmetics, and medicine.

Just like textile traditions, several of our toy and art traditions have used natural dyes. These include Etikoppaka and Channapatna (toys), and Patachitra, Gond, Patua, and Warli (painting traditions). Many floor and wall art traditions across our country, practised and popularised exclusively by women, have traditionally used natural sources of colours such as rice flour, clay, red soil, cow dung, etc. These traditions include kolam, mandana, and aripana.

Why natural dyes?

Kinder to Earth: Since they are natural, the dyes are biodegradable, and disposing them of may not cause pollution. In the case of a plant source other parts of that plant may have their uses too, leading to waste reduction. Many of the sources are said to use less water when compared to synthetic dyes.

Gentle on humans: Many synthetic colours are said to contain chemicals that can harm our skin (through textiles, cosmetics, or toys) or internal organs (when consumed as food), both during the production stage and when used. Such chemicals are almost absent in natural dyes.

Tradition meets innovation: The traditional process of preparing, testing, and using natural dyes is labour-intensive, and the people involved are artisans in their own right. Add to this contemporary experiments, and what we have is a unique result that beautifully straddles the old and the new.

Did you know

  • Synthetic dyes have their origins invariably in non-renewable petrochemical compounds, and are available in many forms such as liquid powder, pastes, or granule. So, they cost less and are more widely used than natural dyes. But they are not environment-friendly in the long run. Their effluents may cause harm to marine creatures
  • Synthetic or artificial dyes were invented less than 200 years ago, becoming particularly popular around the time of the Industrial Revolution. And for thousands of years before that, our ancestors had used colours obtained only from natural and local sources.
  • Our country has evidence of madder-dyed textiles found at Mohenjo-daro nearly 5,000 years ago, a clear indication of our ancient knowledge of dyeing fabric.

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What is reverse engineering?

From fighter aircraft and missiles to cars, there are many examples of products made by reverse engineering.

Reverse engineering is the process by which a product is dismantled to find out how it works so that a duplicate can be made or it can be improved upon. It is done for commercial purposes. It tries to deduce details of product design and manufacture in the absence of complete documentation. It is also used in military or commercial espionage. The rival’s or the enemy’s prototype is stolen and disassembled to collect sensitive data so that a similar product can be made or countermeasures taken. During World War II, British and American forces found that German cans were sturdy and had an excellent design. They used reverse engineering to copy the design and produce similar cans. They came to be known as Jerry cans. From fighter aircraft and missiles to cars, there are many examples of products made by reverse engineering.

Reverse engineering is also used for software analysis. It is done to study the source code of a program if it is lost, or with a view to improving the program. It is also done to fix a bug or a virus.

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I’m an S.Y.B.A. (Sociology) student. What are my career options after I graduate?

The study of sociology offers valuable preparation for careers in law, journalism, business, social work, counselling, politics, public relations, public administration and other related disciplines. These fields require the conceptual and skill-based training that comes from undertaking a degree in sociology.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, you will be employed in businesses, which deal with social programmes and their implementation. Sociology is also one of the few sought after optional for the aspirants of the prestigious Civil Services Examination.

After earning a Master’s degree, you will be involved in conducting surveys, gathering data and evaluating the efficacy of different kinds of social and welfare programmes. This way, you help the companies to plan for the future, deal with organizational re structuring and downsizing and conduct market research for advertisers and manufactures.

Sociologists extensively use statistical and computer techniques in their research, along with qualitative methods such as focus group research and social impact assessment.

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I want to become a Vyomnaut but also serve in the air force

I’m a student of class 9 and I do well with Physics, Maths and Chemistry academically as well as being physically fit and playing sports. I want to become a Vyomnaut but also serve in the air force. I am thinking of taking PCM and pursuing Aeronautics after the 12th, then enter the Indian Air Force via AFCAT, apply at ISRO and see where that will lead me. What should I do?

If you want to become a Vyomnaut (astronaut), the Indian Air Force is the right choice. However, be aware that you may never become an astronaut, even if you join the air force and meet all the requirements. The reason being that India doesn’t have any active astronaut programme, and not even any deployment of astronauts on missions on a regular basis.

When any manned mission is planned, ISRO reaches out to the air force who select a handful of their best pilots and train them for the mission. Of these, one or two will get a chance to go to space.

For the country’s maiden manned Gaganyaan, the Indian Air Force (IAF) shortlisted 200 IAF fighter pilots. They were apparently given a questionnaire to solve by ISRO, after which they were subjected to physical examinations like cardiac, neural, dental, opthalmologic, psychologic and ENT. Out of 200 pilots only four were selected for the mission. They are further being trained by ISRO in rescue and recovery operations, surviving in zero gravity situations, centrifuge training, study of radiation environment and for long journey in space through water simulation.

AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) is conducted by the Indian Air Force. The exam is held twice a year to recruit candidates as Class-I Gazetted Officers in Flying and Ground Duties (Technical and Non-Technical). For the Flying branch, eligibility is B.Sc/B.Tech.

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I want to make a career in wildlife and marine biology

I am a student of Class 10 about to enter Class 11. I am interested in wildlife and marine biology and want to make a career in both. Is it possible for me to be both a wildlife and a marine biologist? If so, please guide me as to which field to opt for in Class 11 and what I need to do after that.

Both fields are related and till graduation the courses are the same. Start with Physics, Chemistry and Biology in 10+2, followed by B.Sc. (Hons) in Biological sciences. Study covers a wide variety of subjects such as biochemistry, pathology, ecology, anatomy, ocean farming, development, reproduction, parasitology, conservation, etc. By that time, you will have a better idea about your interest. Later, you can go for 2 years M. Sc. in Marine Biology or Wildlife.

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AN INTERVIEW OF YOUNG ACHIEVER PRIYANKHA KAMALAKANNAN (AUTHOR OF THE BOOKS “THE POSITIVE POETRY CLOSET’ AND “FANTASIA ADVENTURES”)

This young author of the books “The Positive Poetry Closet’ and “Fantasia Adventures” used the lockdown to hone her writing skills. She’s also been a TEDx speaker. Priyankha Kamalakannan, living in Germany. She speaks about her journey.

How did your journey as an author start?

Writing started as a skill at school. One day, I randomly wrote a short story called The Bucket List Detectives’. My parents printed it as small booklets on my eighth birthday, and gave them as return gifts to guests. Everyone loved the story, and I was motivated by the appreciation I received. So, I wrote another story called ‘Liana’s Adventures In Wonderland. During the lockdown, I re-read my previous works and realised I could write them in a much better way. So I rewrote ‘Liana’s Adventures In Wonderland’, which turned into a newly sculpted tale very different from the original story. Rewriting this story resulted in my first book, ‘Fantasia Adventures.

Tell us about ‘Fantasia Adventures’ and ‘The Positive Poetry Closet?

‘Fantasia Adventures’ is a fantasy book, where the main character is a girl called Lizzy who lives on an English farm and is very special to her grandmother. One night, when she thinks about her grandma, she magically lands in a place called Fantasia, a magical land where she meets a lot of different people. She learns about an evil queen who wants to destroy all the good. She, hence, decides to go on a mission to stop the evil queen and save Fantasia and its people. This is the plot of the story, and I sought help from my friend and added illustrations to make the book more interesting for readers.

My second book is The Positive Poetry Closet. I had numerous poems written and piled up, so I thought of compiling them into a book. I gave the book a fun title and published it.

How was your experience as a TEDx speaker?

When I was in Class III, my teachers used to play TED Talks on the smart board. When I was in Class IV, my school got a licence to conduct a TEDx speech, and my teacher allowed us to participate in it. Only a couple of people were selected, and I was surprised and happy that I was one of them. We had mentors and teachers who supported us, and to make it more impactful, we took instances from real-life for our talks. Not having notes and memorising the speech I wrote was what was keeping me from being distracted. The whole experience was thrilling.

How do you manage school and other work?

My writing started over the lockdown period, so most of my school work was done online during class. Our teachers didn’t give us much work due to which there was a lot of leisure time, which I utilised for writing my books. Our school has a system where they don’t give homework till Class VI, which made it simpler for me. Apart from the time I spend on my school work and writing. I take part in extra-curricular activities too. I also started my YouTube channel during this lockdown, where I shared videos of me spending time with my friends, doing crafts, experiments, baking, etc.

If something has to be changed in society, what would it be?

Irrespective of all the work we should accomplish, we must prioritise what we want to do and what we believe is important to us. It is also important that we spend quality time on the things we are passionate about, as it is important to share our abilities with everyone. In society, I wish to change the pivotal situation of how people are not being able to pursue their dreams and passion due to age boundaries. I would like to break these boundaries that are an obstacle to people from reaching their full potential. Many people of young and old age have been proving that age is just a number and that age shouldn’t be used to question one’s ability.

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WHAT IS THE NEWSEUM?

It is an interactive museum of news and journalism situated in Washington DC, the U.S. It is dedicated to the history and evolution of newsgathering. Spread across seven floors with 15 theatres, an interactive newsroom, and two broadcast studios, it is massive.

History on the go

Established in 1997, The Newsuem showcases all forms of news-from the earliest newspapers to today’s digital ones complemented by audio-visuals. Its archive section has 35,000 front pages of newspapers, dating back to about 500 years. The front pages of over 800 newspapers from around the world are displayed daily in the Newseum and also on its website.

The Newseum displays some moving exhibits such as the laptop of Wall Street Journal’s correspondent Daniel Pearl who was killed by terrorists in Pakistan, several sections of the Berlin Wall, and the twisted remains of the broadcast antenna from atop the World Trade Center tower that collapsed on September 11, 2001.

When treatment goes electronic

Telemedicine refers to the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients using modern telecommunication tools such as the Internet, video conferencing, telephone, fax, and so on. Telemedicine enables the sharing of medical information about a patient electronically. The process of information sharing can happen in real-time, or the data can be forwarded and analysed later.

It has proved to be a boon for patients in smaller towns and remote villages where up-to-date medical facilities may not be readily available. Doctors from rural hospitals can electronically share patients’ data pathological, x-ray and ECG reports and clinical findings – with their counterparts from sophisticated urban hospitals and arrive at a proper diagnosis and line of treatment.

In advanced countries, telemedicine, has been used effectively to handle life-threatening emergencies. Indeed, doctors sitting thousands of kilometres away. have moved the arms and fingers of a surgical robot to carry out surgeries.

Telemedicine has already gained wide acceptance in India. Many major hospitals offer telemedicine services to its patients in remote locations.

Small change, huge consequence

At a scientific conference in 1972, Lorenz presented a paper titled Predictability: Does the Flap of a Butterfly’s Wings in Brazil Set a Tomado in Texas? He explained that a minuscule change in atmospheric pressure (even as miniscule as a butterfly’s flapping wing) had the potential to bring about an overwhelming unforeseen change in the weather. He opined that long-term prediction of weather was impossible as changes in the initial conditions could result in vastly different weather.

Closer home, the 2008 Kamal Hassan-starrer, Dasavatharam, talks about the butterfly effect and chaos theory-in the film, biotechnologist and business tycoon Govindarajan Ramaswamy explains the concept, stringing together a series of incidents from 12th century in Chidambaram, to the present times, that effectively elucidate the concept

The butterfly effect laid the foundation for chaos theory, a branch of Maths that studies dynamical systems. It revolutionised scientific theory because it overturned the previous belief that an approximate idea about the initial conditions could lead to an approximate outcome.

While the butterfly effect is mainly concerned with weather and environment, it is also applied in Quantum Physics, economy, share markets, and business.

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WHAT IS FOUND POETRY?

Found poems are simply the literary equivalent of a collage. Created by assembling borrowed text from published newspaper articles, street signs, graffiti, letters, speeches, poems, and sometimes even documents like tax forms or medical reports, this poetry recycles words by giving them a new meaning and context.

This mode of writing not only makes poetry accessible but also gives a fresh insight into evocative writing.

The origin story

According to the former U.S. poet laureate Billy Collins, the cento (Latin for patchwork) which belongs to the third Century, may have been the original found poem.

A cento-poet often refashioned lines from the works of various revered writers like Homer and Virgil to create a unique verse. The Greeks and Roman assembled centos to pay homage to the literary idols of the past.

Types of Found Poetry

Found poetry can be further classified into blackout poetry, erasure poetry, and cut-up poetry.

Blackout poetry is created by blacking out or blotting certain lines and phrases of an existing article, short story or poem using a pen or a black marker to reinterpret the original work. Contrary to this, erasure poems are created by erasing, clipping out. or obscuring certain lines or words of a printed text using a light coat of white paint.

Cut-up or Remix poetry is curated by literally cutting out words from source materials and rearranging them to create a unique meaning.

A strong proponent of the cut-up approach, American writer William S. Burroughs once said “All writing is in fact, cut-ups. A collage of words read, heard and overheard. What else?”

Found poetry rose to prominence in the 20th century due to its shared similarities with the pop art of artists like Andy Warhol and Marcel Duchamp. It combined literature and visual art to represent the plurality of language.

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WHAT IS THE LOST GENERATION IN LITERATURE?

World War I, or the Great War (1914-1918), fractured the American worldview in ways that were beyond imagination. Many young Americans were in a state of shock after having witnessed death and destruction on such an unparalleled scale. The country that they once knew, as a safe haven built on tenets such as patriotism, faith, and morality (prior to the war) had fallen. All that remained was the population that felt lost, hopeless, scattered and at odds with the old norms of the society.

These sentiments pervaded many cultural aspects of change in the 1920s, including literature. Writers could no longer relate to the subject matter or the themes of the texts produced before the war. Although the term Lost Generation’ was introduced by Gertrude Stein, a modernist American writer who made Paris her permanent home, it only gained popularity after Emest Hemingway included it in the epigraph of his novel The Sun Also Rises (published in 1926).

As the story goes, Stein came upon the term when an auto mechanic upset with his young employee’s unsatisfactory work on her car, referred to the nation’s youth as a lost generation, difficult to prepare for work or focus

The Lost Generation, therefore, referred to that group of men and women who came of age during the First World War and felt disillusioned in the unfamiliar post-war world.

In literature, the Lost Generation was a group of American writers, most of whom immigrated to Europe and worked there from the end of World War I until the Great Depression.

A bohemian lifestyle of travel among intellectuals felt more appealing than remaining in a place where virtuous behaviour no longer existed, faith in religion was broken, and a connection to morality was questionable at best. So, the expatriate writers living in Europe wrote about the trials and tribulations of this Lost Generation, while, being a part of it themselves.

The most famous writers of the Lost Generation include Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, John Dos Passos, Gertrude Stein, and T.S. Eliot.

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WHAT ARE THE CAREER IN DIGITAL MARKETING?

Digital Marketing is a modern way of promoting brands, products and services using all forms of digital channels such as websites, email, social media, mobile apps, etc.

What’s this career about?

Digital marketing is another name for online marketing. These days every business and company utilizes digital marketing strategies as people use their mobile phones almost all day, making it easier to reach potential customers.

There are different types of digital marketing some of which are:

SEO Marketing

SEO Marketing or search engine optimization, is one of the most widespread and in-demand skills in the digital marketing world. In essence, SEO marketing is all about designing and creating content to rank highly in search engines when consumers ask brand-relevant queries and industry-applicable searches.

Social Media Marketing

Social Media Marketing is a fast-growing vertical within digital marketing and can serve as a powerful tool in a business’ advertising arsenal. In this specialty, you will develop content and advertising strategies that promote customer interest and engagement on a variety of social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

While social media marketing may get more media coverage, email marketing is still a core profitable aspect of modern business. Email Marketing sustains and increases business relationships, providing value for customers and engagement for the company. It can drive sales by circulating targeted content designed to appeal to a brand’s customer needs and interests.

Content Marketers

Content Marketers create relevant, interesting, and timely content that appeals to and engages customers on all digital frontiers, from a brand’s social media channels to its website. Often, this kind of marketing will also encompass educational and informative articles, whitepapers and other written work that establishes a brand as a thought leader in its field.

Conversion Rate Optimization

Conversion Rate Optimization is all about increasing the number of conversions – that is, the percentage of website visitors and potential customers who actually make a purchase, fill out a form, or otherwise interact with the site. A conversion rate optimization (CRO) professional may design website flow and structure to enhance conversion and interaction.

Pay-Per-Click Marketing

Pay-Per-Click Marketing means a company may pay large ad vendors like Google or Facebook for text or visual ad placement, aiming to pique searcher attention and ultimately drive sales.

These marketing managers first examine the needs and resources of the business or organization. Then they work with the editorial, commercial, marketing and technical teams to decide on a simple, effective, advanced and comfortable digital channel, which fit the business requirements. They need to ensure all campaigns are delivered on time and on budget. Later, they track what people are saying about a brand online, and help companies manage their brand image.

In small companies, one may have responsibility across all of these areas in some capacity, while in bigger companies, you may solely manage one area like e-mail marketing.

How do I get there?

As digital marketing pertains to knowledge in science, statistics, artistic visualisation and e-commerce, students of any field can take up digital marketing as a career. However, those with degrees in technology and/or marketing do have an upper hand.

A number of courses/certifications are available throughout India. The duration may range from few months to one year and eligibility is graduation. Some of these are: Google Analytics IQ Certification, Hootsuite Social Marketing Certification, Google Ads Certification, HubSpot Content Marketing Certification, Digital Garage: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing Certification, HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification.

During the course, students learn about the various formats of marketing like displaying advertising, social media marketing, mobile and internet marketing, search engine optimization and marketing and website design and ways to use them in order to produce a higher response to online marketing efforts.

What skills do I need?

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Passion for online and media-rich, audio-visual products.
  • Experience in running and developing marketing initiatives in the online world.
  • Willingness to continue to learn about new methods and technology.
  • Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills.
  • Creative and aesthetic sense.
  • Ability to see things differently, innovative mind.

Institutes

  • Indian Institutes of Management at various places
  • Indian School of Business, Hyderabad
  • National Institute of Securities Markets, Navi Mumbai
  • EduKart.com, New Delhi
  • Internet & Mobile Research Institute, Bangalore
  • NIIT at various places
  • Digital Vidya, Gurgaon

Employment profile

Successful candidates may work in the fashion and lifestyle e-commerce industry. Some of the target companies include ITC, Jet Airways, Max Life Insurance, Amazon, Kellogg’s, Nestlé.

According to LinkedIn, the digital marketing industry is growing every year and has the greatest number of job openings. It’s a thriving industry – today, countless consumers buy products based on the ads they see as they navigate search engines, scroll through social media platforms, and open e-mails. Businesses are increasingly spending a big proportion of their marketing budgets on digital marketing.

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I WANT TO BE A SPACE SCIENTIST.

I am a Std 8 student and want to be a space scientist. Please guide me as to what direction I should take after Std 10. Which stream should I choose? What are the qualifications, courses, colleges needed to pursue this career?

To make a career in Space Science, an expertise of the science subjects Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics is a must. These subjects can be pursued at Bachelor’s level, i.e., 4-year B.Tech. programme or 3-year B.Sc. course, for which eligibility is 10+2 in Science stream. After completing a Bachelor’s degree, go for post-graduation in Space Science and Technology and other space-related fields. To become an expert in any specialized field, pursuing a Ph.D. degree is compulsory. In fact, most professionals working in Space Science are Ph.D. holders.

Some of the good institutes are: Indian Institute of Space science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore,Indian Institutes of Technology at various places.

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WHERE IS THE TROPOSPHERE THE THINNEST?

The troposphere can be found between the ground and an altitude of 7 to 20 kilometers (4 to 12 miles). The lesser thickness is found at the Polar Regions, since colder temperatures lead to a decrease in gas volume. The vast majority of the world’s weather is formed in the troposphere and this layer also contains 80 percent of the atmosphere’s mass. The temperature within the troposphere drops with altitude, since it is essentially being warmed by the ground. The pressure also drops within the troposphere as altitude increases, and this explains why mountaineers require oxygen masks.

Credit: Sciencing

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WHAT ARE STROMATOLITES?

Primitive life forms may have first appeared on Earth about 3800 million years ago. These bacteria lived in the oceans and built up solid mats of calcium carbonate, also known as lime. The deposits from the bacteria are known as stromatolites.

Stromatolites are living fossils and the oldest living lifeforms on our planet. The name derives from the Greek, stroma, meaning “mattress”, and lithos, meaning “rock”. Stromatolite literally means “layered rock”. The existence of these ancient rocks extends three-quarters of the way back to the origins of the Solar System.

With a citizen scientist’s understanding, stromatolites are stony structures built by colonies of microscopic photosynthesising organisms called cyanobacteria. As sediment layered in shallow water, bacteria grew over it, binding the sedimentary particles and building layer upon millimetre layer until the layers became mounds. Their empire-building brought with it their most important role in Earth’s history. They breathed. Using the sun to harness energy, they produced and built up the oxygen content of the Earth’s atmosphere to about 20%, giving the kiss of life to all that was to evolve.

Living stromatolites are found in only a few salty lagoons or bays on Earth. Western Australia is internationally significant for its variety of stromatolite sites, both living and fossilised. Fossils of the earliest known stromatolites, about 3.5 billion years old, are found about 1,000km north, near Marble Bar in the Pilbara region. With Earth an estimated 4.5 billion years old, it’s staggering to realise we can witness how the world looked at the dawn of time when the continents were forming. Before plants. Before dinosaurs. Before humans.

Credit: bbc.com

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WHAT IS THE TIMELINE OF LIFE ON EARTH?

Just as the day is divided into hours, minutes and seconds, geologists divide Earth’s history into time periods. The longest divisions are aeons, which are billions of years long; the shortest are chrons, a few thousand years long. In between come eras, periods, epochs and ages. Scientists divide the last 590 million years into three eras: the Palaeozoic (meaning ‘old life’), Mesozoic (‘middle life’), and Cenozoic (‘new life’).

Humans have only been a species in the most recent chapter of the history of Earth. The Earth was formed 4.6 billion years ago, when the sun in our solar system first formed, creating enough gravitational pull to spin planets into orbit. But how do scientists know how old the Earth is if humans weren’t around back when it was formed? When was life first formed on this planet? And what are the paths that life has taken so far over the course of that existence? This lesson will teach about the ages that make up the history of life on Earth, and explore the many changes and forms life has taken in its time on this planet.

Timeline of Geological Eras

The geological timeline of Earth is nearly identical to the history of life on Earth, apart from the Hadean Era. This is because the geological timeline, or the order of geological events, such as oceans forming, volcanoes erupting, how long deserts lasted, and tectonic plate movement, all happened in sequence with the life that has existed on this planet. The history of both life and the geological timeline is arranged within 5 subgroups, arranged from the largest span of time to the smallest: eons, eras, periods, epochs, and ages. To understand the timeline of life that has existed on Earth, it is important to understand how scientists determine the age of both rocks and the remnants of living things, otherwise known as fossils.

Because humans were not around 4.6 billion years ago to record the beginnings of our planet, scientists must rely on evidence from geological and fossil records in order to determine the relative age of both the planet and the life that exists here. Both the geological timeline and the age of life are determined in much the same way. Modern scientists rely on what is called radioactive dating to determine an accurate and precise age of both rocks and fossils. Radioactive dating measures the rate of decay of an element in a rock or in a fossil. Carbon-14 is typically used when dating fossils because all living things are carbon-based, and the flow of carbon can be tracked through the carbon cycle. For geological objects such as rocks and minerals, Rubidium-87 and Potassium-40 are often used. By knowing how long it takes for molecules in an object to decay, scientists can calculate when the object’s half-life is. The half-life of an object refers to the amount of time it would take for half of an amount of a substance to radioactively decay, or break down. If the half-life of an object is known, it is possible to calculate when the object was first created, when no decay is evident.

Credit: study.com

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A pointer to the predominant colour of many of its building, which Indian city is called the Pink City?

Known as the “Pink City of India” due to its distinctive pink coloured buildings, Jaipur is the largest city in the state of Rajasthan and one of India’s most stunning cities.

You may be wondering why it is called the “Pink City,” and this is all down to Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh who had the whole city painted pink in 1876, to entice Prince Albert and Queen Victoria to visit Jaipur as part of their tour of India, as pink was considered the colour of hospitality at the time.

There is so much to see in Jaipur and it has an amazing variety of palaces, forts, temples, monuments, museums, arts and crafts, and various market places to explore.

The city is known for its beauty, and it is unique in its straight-line planning. Its buildings are predominantly rose-coloured, and it is sometimes called the “pink city.” The chief buildings are the City Palace, part of which is home to the royal family of Jaipur; Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century open-air observatory that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010; Hawa Mahal (Hall of Winds); Ram Bagh palace; and Nahargarh, the Tiger Fort. Other public buildings include a museum and a library. Jaipur is the seat of the University of Rajasthan, founded in 1947.

The city is surrounded by fertile alluvial plains to the east and south and hill chains and desert areas to the north and west. Bajra (pearl millet), barley, gram (chickpeas), pulses, and cotton are the chief crops grown in the region. Iron ore, beryllium, mica, feldspar, marble, copper, and garnet deposits are worked. In addition to Amer, other nearby attractions include Sariska National Park to the northeast.

 

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What is the career in the field of music therapy?

The COVID-19 pandemic changed life as we know it. Masks, sanitisers, social distancing have become the new normal. In such stressful times, music has come to the aid of many across the world. Singing, listening to songs is helping people cope with quarantine and isolation. And that’s exactly what the field of musical therapy is all about Music therapists draw upon the healing power of music to improve the well-being of their clients, especially those with disabilities and illnesses.

There are several psychological benefits associated with music. It has been known to help in treating stress and strain, fear, anxiety and depression, and to enhance concentration and memory in children. It is also used for patients with dementia and autism.

How it works

Music therapy is an emerging field backed by mounting scientific evidence. Music therapists work alongside paediatricians and nurses and other allied health professionals, including speech and language therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers.

What are the job prospects

Depending on your interest, you can work as a music therapist in different sectors. Primarily, music therapists work as consultants with hospitals and rehabilitation centres. Music therapy is used for children with physical, developmental and intellectual disabilities. Their treatment does not involve medication. Instead, it focusses on bringing about behavioural and cognitive changes. Similarly, schools for differently abled children may also consult music therapists to help children cope with school work. Many corporate houses ask music therapists to conduct workshops to relieve anxiety and stress of employees.

What to study

To work as a music therapist, a Bachelor’s degree in music or psychology, special education, occupational therapy, social work or nursing is a prerequisite.

Where:

  • St Mira’s College, Pune: One-year, full-time, and two-year, part time, Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Music Therapy
  • Chennai School of Music Therapy: An online, foundation course to train aspirants in the basics of music therapy. Individuals with a Bachelors in Music or related fields can opt for the Postgraduate Diploma programme in Music Therapy
  • Nada, Centre for Music Therapy, Chennai and Delhi: Certificate course in Music Therapy – a distance-learning course offered in affiliation with the Directorate of Distance Learning
  • Mumbai Educational Trust’s Institute of Alternative Careers, Mumbai: Certificate in Music Therapy – a six-month, part-time course.
  • S.H Centre for Music Therapy and Mental Health, Amritsar: A distance-education course in Music Therapy. The centre is affiliated to Bharat Sevak Samaj, an agency promoted by the Government of India.

 

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What is the career in the field of Earth Sciences?

Our Earth is extremely fragile, and human activities are making it more vulnerable. One of the recent examples of the impact of indiscriminate development and climate change is the shocking collapse of a portion of the Nanda Devi glacier in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on February 7, 2021, and the ensuing floods that claimed many lives. The deadly disaster brings to light the need to rigorously study the impact of human activity on the environment. And that’s exactly what earth scientists do.

What is Earth Science?

Earth science is the study of the structure, composition, and evolution of the Earth, the life it supports, and the processes that govern the formation and behaviour of the Earth’s materials. It seeks to find answers to questions such as how ice moves, where the mineral resources are, and the rate of permafrost thaw. Understanding these phenomena is essential to the maintenance of life on the planet.

Different branches:

  • Glaciology: Glaciologists assess the impact of climate change, look for alternatives to sustain Earth’s depleting resources, and forecast avalanches.
  • Geology: Geologists study Earth and the processes that act on its materials. It also traces the history of the planet and its life forms since origin.
  • Hydrogeology: The study of water flow on and below the Earth’s surface and its chemistry.
  • Limnology: Limnology examines lake sediments to determine past climate and ecological environments.
  • Oceanography: The study of the ocean, including its water, boundaries and topography, types of currents, and marine biology.
  • Volcanology and Seismology: The scientific study of the dynamics of volcanoes and earthquakes.

What to study?

Universities in India and abroad offer a range of courses in Earth Sciences. You can pursue a Master of Science (M.Sc) and specialise in the field of your choice. A Ph.D is required to start working in the field.

Where: India

  • Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun: Training and research programmes on Geomorphology and Environmental Geology. Geophysics, Petrology and Geochemistry
  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune: Dual degree programme Bachelor of Science and Master of Science
  • Sharada University. Noida, and Pondicherry University: M.Sc in Environmental Sciences
  • Bharatiya Vidyapeeth, Insitute of Environment Education and Research. Punes M.Sc in Environment Science and Technology
  • Annamalai University, Cuddalore: M.Sc Earth Sciences and PG diplomas in Petroleum and Remote Sensing

Abroad

  • Utrecht University, the Netherlands, M.Sc Earth Surface and Water
  • University of Helsinki, Finland: M.Sc Geology and Geophysics
  • The University of Westent Australia: Master of Geographic Information Science
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the U.S. M.SC Atmospheres, Oceans and Climate: M.Sc Geology, Geochemistry and Geobiology; Master of Environmental Policy and Planning

What are the job prospects?

Earth scientists primarily work in research organisations and environmental monitoring agencies.

These organisations could be in the private as well as the public sector.

Depending on your field of interest, you can also work with non-profit organisations and think-tanks on environment conservation and policy. If you have an academic bent of mind, then working in a university as a professor in the field of your choice could also suit you.

 

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What is the career in the field of Virology?

Lockdown, social distancing, and quarantine have become an integral part of our lives over the last one year. With fear gripping the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been challenging times for doctors, health care professionals and, of course, virologists – as they had to study and research about the deadly virus and its various mutants.

While the world has found some ray of hope amid gloom – thanks to the vaccination process – most countries have stepped up their health infrastructure and research monitoring. In the recently announced Union budget, the Indian government, too, has pledged to fund four national virology institutes and nine high-containment laboratories for research and studies on infectious pathogens, making virology a viable career option.

A study of viruses and virus-like agents that affect humans, animals and plants, virology is identifying the nature of the virus and coming up with vaccines to prevent them. So if you are interested in science and have a research-orientation, the field of virology could be the perfect choice for you.

How it works

So, one may wonder what exactly is the role of virologists. Virology is definitely a challenging field, but at the same time, it is quite interesting too. Virologists examine the structure of viruses, classify them and monitor their evolution as well as their interactions with host cells and the way other living creatures fight them. Virology also focusses on the spread of infectious disease, including threats such as the common cold, rabies, yellow fever, and polio.

Scope

A plethora of opportunities are available to virologists in both the public and the private sector. In the public sector, virologists work with government institutes and laboratories. They are also in demand in the pharmaceutical sector. Working with pharma companies, virologists help develop vaccines and medicines for contagious disease and infections. Virologists can also opt for an academic life by teaching in colleges and universities. Often medical doctors specialise in virology to carry out clinical research or work with patients with such viruses. If you have a desire to educate people about viruses and infections, you can also venture into science writing after training in virology.

What to study?

To work as a virologist, you need a background in Biology, Microbiology or Immunology. To qualify as a virologist, you can opt for a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Virology offered by several colleges and universities. Some colleges also offer specialisations in Clinical Virology and Infection Biology.

Where:

India:

  • National Institute of Virology, Savitribai Phule University, Pune: M.Sc in Virology
  • Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati: M.Sc in Virology
  • Manipal University, Karnataka: M.Sc in Clinical Virology
  • Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology, Noida: M.Sc. (Immunology), M.Sc. (Medical Microbiology), M.Sc. (Virology), and PG Diploma in Clinical Virology and Immunology

Abroad:

  • University of Glasgow, the U.K.: M.Sc in Infection Biology
  • University of Cambrige, the U.K.: M.Phil in Biology Science (Pathology)
  • University of Oxford, the U.K.: M.Sc Integrated Immunology

 

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What is the career in the field of image consultancy?

A limp handshake at a job interview, stumbling over your words during a presentation, or wearing the wrong outfit to an official meeting. Impressions can make or break your professional image. That’s where an image consultant steps in. From social graces and power dressing to dining and business etiquette, image consultants help you refine your appearance and personality.

Image consultancies or finishing schools work with a spectrum of working professionals, including successful entrepreneurs, celebrities and corporate organisations. They help cultivate their image and create personal brand that suits their goals and profession.

How it works

Image consultants offer a wide array of services such as lessons on good first impressions, the right body language and soft skills. They help in honing your communication skills and emotional intelligence. They also advise you on your digital footprint. Often programmes are customised to meet individual needs. The focus is on holistic personality development.

Image consultancy vs. personal stylist

Image consultants hold different titles such as etiquette consultants, wardrobe consultants or style coaches. But often they are mistaken for personal stylists.

While both image consultancy and personal stylists deal with the appearance of the client, image consultancy goes beyond looks to behaviour and communication skills. A personal stylist will dress you up for a particular event such as a party or a wedding whereas image consultants give recommendations on your personal styling and behaviour, which will stay with you forever.

What are the job prospects?

From working professionals to homemakers and students, people from varied backgrounds are willing to invest time and resources in building their image. This makes image consultancy a lucrative career. Image matters even for companies. The personality of a company can influence how it’s perceived in the market, its clients and revenue. So corporate too hire image consultants to train their employees to present the right professional image.\

What to study?

Many private institutes offer certification and training in image consultancy, but these can be expensive. Although you do not require any formal course or degree to start working as an image consultant, a certification from a reputed institute helps build credibility.

Many private training institutes in India and abroad offer foundation and advanced courses in image consultancy A few institutes also offer online certification

Where

India:

  • Image Consulting Business Institute, Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru; and Indian School of Image Management, Mumbai; Certificate in Image Consultancy
  • Florina Finishing School, Bengaluru and First Impression (a unit of Franknn group), Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Amritsar: Training courses in Image Consultancy

Abroad:

  • The Association of Image Consultants International, the U.S.: Certificate in Image Consultancy, Certificate as Image Professional; and Certificate as Image Master
  • Blackford Centre for Image Consulting, the U.K.: Diploma in Image Consultancy

 

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What is dramatic monologue?

“Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;

I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.

The evil that men do lives after them;

The good is oft interred with their bones;

So let it be with Caesar…”

Strong and hard-hitting, you’re probably familiar with these lines from William Shakespeare’s well-known play, “Julius Caesar”. But did you know that this famous address by Marc Antony to the people of Rome is known as a monologue?

Dramatic monologues are popular literary devices. They are long speeches delivered by a single character on stage in a theatre production or on camera in a film. Monologues can be traced back to ancient Greek theatre. The term itself is derived from the Greek words monos (single) and legein (to speak).

Monologues offer a peek into the backstory of the character spoken about. Since a monologue turns the spotlight on a particular character, it offers that actor a unique opportunity to display his acting prowess.

But monologues are not to be confused with soliloquies, which are often internal reflections of a character on stage when alone. While a monologue is addressed to other characters and the audience, soliloquy as a device is employed when a character is talking to itself I and when it’s not meant to be heard by the other characters in the production. Soliloquy is a form of internal monologue. The “To Be or Not to Be” speech from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” is arguably the best example of a soliloquy monologue.

 

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What is the career in the field of sustainable architecture?

“A building is alive, like a man… Its maker gives it the soul and every wall, window and stairway to express it.” – Ayn Rand, “The Fountainhead”.

And it’s the architects who breathe life into buildings.

With the recent push towards sustainability, there is growing awareness around mindful construction in conjunction with nature. This has given rise to a fresh wave of architects who are designing eco-friendly spaces.

What is sustainable architecture?

The building and construction industry is one of the major contributors of greenhouse gas emissions. So sustainable architecture seeks to reduce the impact on the environment at every stage. This is done using locally available resources, natural materials, energy efficient and climate-friendly methods.

What to study?

To work as an architect, aspirants need a Bachelors in Architecture (B.Arch) and Masters in Architecture (M.Arch). Students from the science stream are eligible to pursue these degrees. Recently, many institutes have been offering  postgraduate specialisations in Sustainable or Green Architecture. Some institutes also provide one year diploma or short-term courses on specific subjects such as energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting, water management, sustainable building materials and waste management.

Where to study

India

  • National Institute of Technology, Calicut: B.Arch
  • School of Planning and Architecture, Vijaywada: M.Arch in Sustainable Architecture
  • Rachna Sansad’s Institute of Environment, Mumbai: Masters in Environmental Architecture
  • National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu: M.Arch in Energy Efficient and Sustainable Architecture.
  • Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune: M. Arch (Sustainable Architecture).
  • Centre for Environmental Planning and Technologuy University, Ahmedabad: Masters in Urban Design, and M.Arch in Conservation and Regeneration
  • Sir J.J.School of Architecture, Mumbai: B.Arch and M. Arch

Abroad:

  • Nottingham University, the U.K.: M.Arch (Architecture and Sustainable Design)
  • University of Greenwich, the U.K.: M.Sc (Sustainable Building Design and Engineering)
  • University of Leeds, School of Earth & Environment, the U.K.: M.Sc (Sustainable Cities)
  • Centre for Alternative Technology, Graduate School of the Environment, the U.K.: M.Sc Sustainability and adaptation in the Built Environment; M.Sc Green Building, and M. Arch (Sustainable Architecture).
  • National University of Singapore: Masters in Urban Design

Required skills

  • Enhanced design abilities
  • Technical and software skills
  • A holistic perspective of environmental sustainability
  • Knowledge of global and local environmental issues
  • Ability to come up with innovative solutions

DID YOU KNOW?

In India, green building rating systems such as the Indian Green Building Council’s rating system and Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment offer training courses and opportunities to accreditation for green building professionals.

 

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What is the career in the field of cognitive science?

What is cognitive science?

Cognitive science is the study of the mind- its inner workings and complexities. Through different disciplines (including psychology, neuroscience and philosophy) it tries to offer multi-faceted explanations of individual and social behaviour.

How it works?

Cognitive scientists try to understand cognitive processes such as memory, language, human reasoning, creativity. They look at how these processes affect our ability to experience the world around us

This study can be applied towards understanding and developing education tools, better virtual user interfaces, and even artificial intelligence.

What are the job prospects?

The interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science provides students with the opportunity to pursue careers ranging from science to technology to law. Today, cognitive science is playing a crucial role in developing artificial intelligence and machine-learning, Cognitive scientists apply their knowledge of the human mind to develop machines that can mirror human functions.

Some of the other avenues open to students of cognitive science are software development user experience / user interface design game design, data science and data analysis, communications and mobile systems, medical technology and analysis.

Students can also work in other fields that value good writing and analytic thought along with technical and research skills. These include neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation law, technical writing, science communication and public engagement, and marketing and consumer behaviour.

What to study

Many universities in India and abroad offer undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate courses in Cognitive Science.

Where:

  • Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur: Minor in Cognitive Science; Master of Science (M.S.) in Cognitive Science
  • Centre of Behavioural and Cognitive Sciences, University of Allahabad: Master of Science in Cognitive Science
  • Centre for Neuroscience, Indian Institute of Sciences, Bengaluru: Postgraduate courses in Cognitive Science
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the U.S.: Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Brain and Cognitive Science
  • Yale University, the U.S.: Undergraduate programme in Cognitive Science
  • University of Pennsylvania, the U.S.: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Cognitive Neuroscience; Computation and Cognition; and Language and Mind.

 

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What is the career in the field of meteorology?

Real-time and accurate information on weather are critical factors in predicting and responding to extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods. With such events increasing, the demand for personnel in the field of meteorology is increasing.

How it works

By analysing international climatic trends, meteorologists can calculate the threat of global warming and even predict catastrophic dust storms and cyclones such as the cyclone Nivar that recently hit Tamil Nadu.

As a meteorologist you can join the Met Office, the government body for weather forecasting and research. You can also work with environmental agencies for research on global warming and climate change.

Often meteorologists team up with atmospheric chemists and other scientists in the Pollution Control Board to track pollution levels that affect the air quality of cities.

You can also work as a weather forecaster for radio and television.

Required skills

An in-depth knowledge of Mathematics and Physics is key, coupled with a keen interest in environmental issues. Since a meteorologist’s work involves observing and interpreting large amounts of data, communication skills are important too.

You also need to have the ability to handle extreme pressure, especially during adverse conditions such as cyclones or thunderstorms.

Excellent computer skills are a must as meteorology depends on advanced technology and software. Dedication and willingness to put in long hours is equally essential.

What to study

Those aspiring to work as scientific assistants with the Indian Meteorological Department need to appear for the staff selection commission exam. You need to be a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) with Physics and Maths or a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) with Computer Science or Electronics to qualify. For a position as a meteorologist, you need to further pursue a Masters and crack the Union Public Service Commission exam. Meteorologists have more responsibilities than scientific assistants. Experienced meteorologists are in demand in the private sector as well.

Where to study

  • Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam: M.Sc in Meteorology.
  • Cochin University of Science and Technology: M.Sc in Environmental Technology.
  • Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune:  Research in Science of Climate Change; Advanced Training in Earth System Sciences and Climate.

Abroad:

  • University of Birmingham, the U.K.: M.Sc Applied Meteorology and Climatology: B.Sc Environmental Science,
  • University of Exeter, the U.K.: M.Sc Mathematics (Climate Science).
  • University College, London: M.Sc Climate Change.
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What is the career in Geoinformatics?

Maps are no longer just pieces of paper connecting one place to another. Today, they help us drive to unfamiliar places, have food delivered to our doorstep and have a cab pick us up within minutes. This is all thanks to the geoinformatics (GIS) and remote sensing technology, which is used in navigation and several apps. As the technology advances, it has opened up a plethora of career avenues.

What is GIS?

Geoinformatics is a specialised field necessitating expert knowledge. A GIS professional interprets and understands geographical data and presents it in a way people can access easily. They build and maintain GIS databases, use the technology to analyse spatial and non spatial information. GIS professionals hold a wide variety of job titles, including GIS Analyst, GIS Technician, and Cartographer.

What is the scope?

GIS professionals can work in different organisations. In the government sector, job prospects include government space agencies, research institutes, national informatics centre, agricultural research institute, among others. There are growing opportunities in the private sector as well with companies discovering the benefits of geoinformatics.

Environmental agencies, survey and mapping organisations, mineral exploration, utility companies, emergency services, public health and epidemiology, international organisations, crime mapping, transportation and infrastructure, tourism industry, market analysis and e-commerce are some of the other avenues available in this field.

Job profiles range from scientist project co-ordinator, project scientist and technical assistant to research scholar, research associate, GIS expert and GIS environment analyst in private sector.

What to study

Students specialising in Geography, Geology: Agriculture, Engineering,. Information Technology or Computer Science can gain admission to Master of Science (M.Sc.). Master of Technology (M.Tech.) courses in Geoinformatics and Remote Sensing. There is also the option to follow it up with Ph.D. programmes

Where:

  • Indian Institute of Remote Sensing and Sensing: Dehradun: M.Tech. (RS & GIS) conducted in collaboration with Andhra University, Visakhapatnam: M.Sc in Geoinformatics conducted in collaboration with the Faculty of Geo information Science & Earth Observation of the University of Twente, the Netherlands
  • Birla Institute of Technology: Ranchi, Extension centres – Kolkata, Jaipur. MSc. in Geoinformatics
  • National Remote Sensing Agency: Hyderabad: Training courses in in geo spatial technology
  • ISRO, Bengalund Training in the field of Remote Sensing: Geo-informatics and GPS Technology for Natural Resources and Disaster Management for Master of Engineering (M.E), M.Sc. M. Tech, Master of Computer Applications students
  • Symbiosis Institute of Geoinformatics, Pune: M.Sc. in Geoinformatics.

 

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What is the career in trekking?

What is mountain climbing?

Mountain climbing is an adventure sport pursued across the world. A trekking or mountain guide helps Amateurs scale the mountains. Be it the world’s highest mountain Mount Everest or the second highest Karakoram range, many of the mountaineers couldn’t have made it without the help of trekking guides.

How it works:

Trekking guides are trained in climbing and surving in high altitudes. They are responsible for taking clients to the top of the mountains and bringing them back safely.

Often there might be more than one trekking guide in an expedition depending on the difficulty level.

What it involves

Mountaineering can be tough and intense, and one of the biggest challenges of the job is braving harsh climates and terrain. Not only do you need to be prepared for all emergencies, including avalanches, which are fairly common. but you should be willing to put others’ needs in front of your own. As a guide your job is to ensure your client’s safety, which can be a huge responsibility. Mountain climbing and guiding may not be financially rewarding. The profession has high demand in particular seasons. In India, usually, winters and early summers are busy because it is a good weather for trekking. Except for a few parts, the rainy season is a dry spell.

Did you know?

  • Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, were the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest – the world’s highest mountain – on May 29, 1953.
  • Bachendri Pal became the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1984.
  • Arunima Sinha, an amputee mountaineer, scaled Mount Everest on May 21, 2013 with a prosthetic leg.
  • In 2014, Pooma Malvath made history as the youngest person ever to scale Mount Everest at 13.

What to study:

To get started in this career, you need to get certified as a mountaineer from a government-recognised institute

Where:

  • Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand Advance Mountaineering Course (AMC) and Method of Instruction (MOI).
  • Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir AMC and Adventure Courses.
  • National Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Dirang. Arunachal Pradesh: Courses in mountaineering, mountain terrain biking, and paragliding.
  • Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling. West Bengal: AMC MOI, Search and Rescue, and Rock climbing.
  • Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali, Himachal Pradesh: Basic Mountaineering (26 days) and AMC (28 days)

Abroad

  • Australian School of Mountaineering, Katoomba: Training courses in mountaineering, abseiling, canyoning and rock climbing
  • Alpine Ascents International, Seattle, Washington, the U.S.: Beginner, Intermediate and International Mountaineering courses.
  • International School of Mountaineering, the U.K: Courses in alpine mountaineering and ice climbing.

 

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What is TRP?

Very often we hear people talking about the TRP of a TV channel or programme increasing. What does it mean? How is TRP estimated?

TRP is a metric used to measure the reach of the television. Standing for Television Rating Point, TRP tells us which programme or channel is viewed the most. TRP indicates how popular a show or channel is. The higher the TRP, the wider the viewership. In other words, TRPs indicate how many people watched which programmes or channels for how long during a particular period.

How does TRP help?

TRP helps advertisers know the pulse of the audience. Advertisements being a costly investment, advertisers need to ensure maximum reach of their ads for the benefit of their product. According to the TRP of a programme or channel, they decide where to display their ads. Higher TRP means bigger audience and more money from advertisers.

How is it measured?

The Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India, a joint industry body represented by advertisers, ad agencies and broadcasters, carries out television ratings in India. It has installed a device called BAR-O-meter in over 40,000 households across the country to measure viewership of hundreds of channels. The device tracks the shows being watched and provides data on viewership patterns across age and socio-economic groups. The panel households are assumed to be representative of the country’s population and this sampling helps estimate the viewing patterns of crores of viewers.

Every Thursday, BARC releases data comparing the viewership of varied programmes and channels. However, it has announced a three-month suspension of ratings of news channels following the latest TRP manipulation scam.

 

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What is the career in Pharmacy?

Pharmacy, also known as Pharmacology, is the study of preparing, mixing, dispensing or compounding drugs, pills, tablets, ointments or injections. It is an age-old profession that has been part of all ancient civilisations. Today, this field has grown by leaps and bounds, moving on from traditional roles and providing critical inputs to various fields – clinical services, reviewing medications for safety and efficacy, providing drug information, manufacturing, product development, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, teaching etc.

 

What are the career prospects?

The field of pharmacy offers a plethora of career opportunities from manufacturing pharmaceutical products and developing the techniques of production to executing quality control of the medicines, Pharmacists are hired by pharmaceutical industries, government departments, colleges and universities, hospitals, investigative agencies and research institutes. They can also find jobs in food and cosmetic industries.

Required skills

  • Proficiency in R and D: The field of pharmacy involves researching on the development and the progress of manufacturing the drugs. You must be aware of the developments and advancements in the field.
  • Technical knowledge: You must know how to operate computers and other electronic gadgets used in medicine production
  • Logic and analysis: Thinking and good observation skills are important
  • Communication skills: Good communication skills are needed to convey safety guidelines and general information about the product to the users.
  • Patience Research work requires patience as it can take several years to complete.

Where you can study

  • University of Delhi: Bachelors in Pharmacy (B.Pharm). Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharma), Master of Science in Pharmacy (M.Sc. Pharmacy)
  • University of Madras: M.Sc. (Pharmacy): M.D. (Pharmacology): and M.Sc (Pharmacology)
  • Uttarakhand Technical University: B.Pharm; M.Pharm. (Quality Assurance); and M.SC (Pharmacy)
  • Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER),Chandigarh: M.D. (Pharmacology) and M.SC (Pharmacy)
  • Kendriya Vishwavidyalaya, Tamil Nadu: M.Sc (Pharmacy) and D.Pharm

Abroad:

  • Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, the U.S.: Master of Science (M.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences and M.S. in Pharmacology
  • University of Southern California, the U.S.: M.S. in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy
  • Duquesne University, the U.S.: M.S. in Pharmacy Administration.

 

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My aim is to become an eye specialist

My aim is to become an eye specialist. What qualities do I need to develop and which courses should I take up after Std X to pursue a career as an eye specialist?

To become an eye specialist, first you need to have a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree. After completing MBBS, go for 2 years PG diploma or 3 years M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) in Ophthalmology or M.S. (Master of Surgery).

The duration of MBBS is 52 of which the last one year is a period years of rotary internship. Four and half years are divided into three parts. The first one and half years are spent on pre-clinical subjects, i.e., anatomy, biochemistry and physiology. The next one and a half years are spent on studies of pharmacology, forensic medicine, pathology, bacteriology, microbiology, etc. After passing the pre-clinical subjects, the next one and half years are devoted to clinical work in hospital ward and departments, concurrently with training in the para medical subjects, i.e., surgery, medicine and gynaecology. One year of internship is devoted to complete practical training in above subjects.

There are medical colleges in every state while some are controlled by central or state governments, others are administered by private communities. Admissions are either through competitive entrance exams or on merit, i.e., marks obtained in the qualifying exam.

Some of the qualities required are: strong communication skills, high degree of motivation and self-discipline, strong desire to help the sick and injured, emotional stability and the capacity to make decisions in an emergency.

 

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I want to enter into the field of Nuclear Physics

I am a Class 12 (Science) student. After my 12th I want to enter into the field of Nuclear Physics. Which are the colleges that offer this field of study? Does this field carries some scope for research in our country? How do I shape my career after my Class 12 examinations?

A Nuclear Physics deals with study of the structure of matter at the atomic level. The subject is mainly applied in nuclear power generation and nuclear weapons technology. A few other applications of the subject are nuclear medicine, ion implantation in material engineering, magnetic resonance imaging, and radiocarbon dating in geology and archaeology.

To enter into this field, you should have a good grounding in Physics. Start with an UG degree in Physics and go for PG with specialization in Nuclear Physics. You may also go for an Integrated M.Sc.-Ph.D, degree after B.Sc (Hons). Some of the best institutes offering such courses are: Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai; IIT Mumbai, Delhi Kanpur, Kharagpur, Guwahati, Madras and Roorkee: The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai; Harish Chandra Research Institute (HRT), Allahabad; Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) at Pune, Mohali, Kolkata, Trivandrum and Bhopal, and also at the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) at Bhubaneswar.

 

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I want to become a gynaecologist

I’m currently studying in Class 10. I am very interested in Biology and its branches and I want to become a gynaecologist. What should I opt for in the future?

In order to become a gynaecologist, you should first go for MBBS, for which eligibility is 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Then go for 2 years PG diploma or 3 years M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) in Gynaecology or M.S. (Master of Surgery).

 

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I want to be a psychologist

I am a student of Class 11 with the subjects PCM. I want to be a psychologist but had never studied it as a subject before. What should I do after Std 12 so as to pursue Psychology as a career? I also want to try for the Civil Services. What are the courses (so as to become eligible to give the Civil Services exams, too), job opportunities and scope in this field? Also is there any exam I need to do so as to work in foreign countries?

You can still study Psychology during graduation, even if you do not have Psychology as a subject in 10+2. But before taking this decision, you should carefully think about your seriousness about the subject and available options. Borrow books on Psychology from your friends and read to have an idea about the subject.

During graduation, the studies will be of a higher level. Psychology graduates have knowledge of the assessment of personality, intelligence and attitudes, interviewing techniques, questionnaire design and analysis, child development, and methods of teaching and learning. This knowledge can be applied to an enormous number of occupations and professions like market research, social work, personnel management and career guidance. They may also be involved in investigations such as crime detection and lie detection. Psychology is a popular subject in competitive examinations like the civil services.

Indian Civil Services are the most powerful, glamorous and coveted of all Indian services. Officers have a wide variety of duties and responsibilities ranging from maintenance of law and order, collection of taxes, to developmental work within State and Central areas of jurisdiction, implementation of social welfare activities, etc.

Recruitment to these offices is through the All India Combined Competitive Examination for the Civil Services, conducted by UPSC.

The examination consists of three levels: Preliminary Examination (two papers of multiple-choice questions), Main Examination (nine papers of essay type questions) and interview. This is truly an intense competitive examination and requires at least one year of dedicated preparation. To appear in this examination one should have completed graduation in any stream. However, the standard of questions is usually an inter-mix of both graduate and post graduate level of study.

 

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What is the career in social media manager?

From the moment we open our eyes to the time we fall asleep, we are constantly checking or updating information on social media. But there’s more to social media than taking selfies and creating snappy posts.

Social media has opened up newer avenues in marketing. It has immense potential because it allows companies to directly connect with their users or potential customers and understand their likes and dislikes.

How it works

Social media managers need to be constantly on their toes. They need to know everything that is happening across platforms, follow trends and news stories from around the world and see how they can tweak them to their client’s needs, almost immediately.

Well-versed with different social networking platforms used by their target audience, social media managers come up with strategies designed to suit their brand promotions on these platforms. These strategies differ from platform to platform

For instance, during the lockdown on account of the COMID-19 pandemic many brands held live interviews with celebrities on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

Getting started

  • Handle low profile pages: Beginners usually start by handling social media pages for their school or college
  • Promote your school/college fest: On different platforms such as Facebook Twitter Instagram, etc. Come up with engaging online contests from time to time and create a campaign that will help you get hits.
  • Freelance work: You can start your carter in social media marketing Sites such as Upwork and Freelancer will help you land a freelance project to experiment a little.
  • Agencies With some experience under your belt you could choose to work in an agency handling digital marketing for multiple brands or work with a particular brand or business 
  • Specialisation: You may choose from areas such as search engine optimisation pay-per dick, web design etc.

What to study

** Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai: PG diploma in Digital Marketing.

Courses in Digital Marketing and Social Media Management are offered by many institutes. It teaches you about platforms, analytics, and essentials of framing campaign strategies.

Where:

India:

** Xavier’s Institute of Communication, Mumbai: Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Digital Marketing.

** Indian School of Business, Hyderabad: Diploma in Digital and Social Media Marketing Strategies.

Abroad:

** South New Hampshire University, the US: MBA in Social Media

** Barcelona Graduate school of Management MBA in Marketing in the Digital Era

** Concordia University, the US: MBA with a Certificate in Digital Marketing

** Excelsior College, the US: MBA with specialisation in Social Media Management.

A Career as a Stockbroker

Do you have excellent communication, negotiation and analytical skills?

Do you like working in a fast-paced and challenging financial environment?

Advising and counseling clients on appropriate investments and working as a stockbroker may be the career for you.

What’s this career about?

Stockbrokers deal with a variety of investments, including stocks, bonds and mutual funds. They invest in the stock market for individuals or corporations. Only members of the stock exchange can conduct transactions, so whenever individuals or corporations want to buy or sell stocks they must go through a brokerage house.

Brokers explain the workings of the stock exchange to their clients and gather information from them about their needs and financial ability, and then determine the best investments for them. The broker then sends the order out the floor of the securities exchange by computer or by phone. When the transaction has been made, the broker supplies the client with the price. The buyer pays for the stocks and the broker transfers the title of the stock to the client and performs clearing and settlement procedures.

In order to provide the best advice to their customers, stockbrokers continuously research publicly traded companies, their products and finances. They also stay abreast of market trends and know which stocks offer good long-term and short-term investments.

Apart from work, stockbrokers always remain in touch with their clients in order to understand their needs. They constantly update them about the fluctuations in the market and advice them when to buy and sell and at what rates. At the same time, stockbrokers also ensure that their stock trading company also makes maximum profit in the long run. Initially, brokers spend many hours on the phone building up a client base.

Stockbrokers may specialize in either private client or institutional client work; in dealing or in advising; or in certain types of securities. The work is, mainly, sales-oriented and is conducted on the telephone. Since the industry is performance-driven, one has to be on their toes all the time to keep pace with the market movement.

All the operations today are computerized, with highly –trained and qualified specialists keeping a close watch on the market. One can survive in the stock broking career only if they have a knack of thinking on their feet and be adaptable in an ever-changing environment.

How do I get there?

Minimum requirement is graduation in any discipline preferably Commerce. Since stockbrokers must be well-informed about economic conditions and trends, courses in business administration, Finance & Control and Economics are helpful especially in the larger securities firms.

Some big broking firms prefer MBAs with specialization in Finance or Charted Accountants. PG programmes in capital market studies, and in stocks and securities are also available in selected universities and institutes.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the authorized Body which regulates the operations of stock exchanges, banks and other financial institutions. All stockbrokers need to be registered under SEBI and are governed under the rules, laws and regulations of this authority.

Besides registering with the SEBI, stockbrokers must become members of one or more stock exchanges such as the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). To attain membership of the stock exchange, one has to go through training under a broking firm for a period of minimum 6 months. The training aims to impart knowledge of subjects like accountancy, law-related subjects, capital markets, securities and portfolio analysis, etc. most employers provide on-the-job training to help stockbrokers meet the requirements for membership.

Their application forms are closely evaluated by the exchanges before granting membership. Most major exchanges require stockbrokers to pay a security deposit and a membership fee, which usually involves a considerable expense.

NSE India has created the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) to educate stock brokers, sub-brokers and investors about the stock market. In some cases, having the certification of the NISM is mandatory by some broking firms.

What key skills do I need?

  • Assertive, quick and decisive regarding other people’s money.
  • An aptitude for numbers.
  • Able to work in a stressful and competitive working environment.
  • Excellent sales skills.
  • Energetic and willing to work hard.
  • IT competence.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Institutes

  • National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), Mumbai (nism.ac.in)
  • National Stock exchange, Mumbai (nsindia.com)
  • Mumbai Stock Exchange Training Institute, Mumbai (bseindia.com)
  • Institute of Charted Financial Analysts of India, Hyderabad (icfai.org)
  • Institute of Company Secretaries of India, New Delhi (icsi.edu)
  • Indian Institute of Capital Markets, Navi Mumbai (utiicm.com)
  • The Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai (nmims.edu)
  • BSE Institute Limited at various places (bsebti.com)

Pay package

Stock broking is a lucrative job. Most brokering firms pay performance based commissions along with a salary. Earnings from commission vary and are likely to be high when there is much buying and selling and low when there is a slump in market activity. They can start with 5-8 lakh rupees per annum; those with MBAs and post-graduates with a qualification in stock broking earn more. Some receive a bonus, if they meet certain established goals.

Employment profile

Stock broking work in the stock exchanges, business houses, financial institutions, or investments banks. They can also start their own consultancies.

The easing of regulation of the banking industry, and the many new stock options made available are rapidly creating new employment opportunities. Though the use of the internet for online trading can hamper the growth, still many investors rely on stockbrokers to assist them in selecting the proper stocks, mutual funds, and other financial products.

The demand for securities sales representatives fluctuates, as the economy expands and contracts.

 

Credit : Dr. Vibha Gupta (Teenager Today)

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Indian Air Force DRDO Netra AWACS Planes To Look Deep Into Pakistan And China

Netra is an Airbome Early Waming and Control (AEWC) aircraft fitted with indigenously developed electronics and hardware. It is useful for surveillance, tracking, identification and classification of airbome and sea surface targets. It is also useful in detecting incoming ballistic missile threats. It played a key role during the Balakot airstrike, carried out by the IAF in February 2019. It provided surveillance and radar coverage to the five Mirage jets that bombed terror launch pads in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. It was designed and developed by scientists of the DRDO, with assistance from the Bengaluru based Centre for Airborne Systems.

China is equipped with better capabilities. As TOI reported earlier, China has over 20 AWACS, including the new KJ-500 ones that can track over 60 aircraft at ranges up to 470km, while Pakistan, on the other hand has four Swedish Saab-2000 AeW&C aircraft and four Chinese-origin ZDK-03 (KJ-200) AWACS.

Keeping this in mind, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), in March 2016 cleared building of two Awacs, which will involve mounting indigenous 360-degree coverage AESA (active electronically scanned array) radars on Airbus A-330 wide-body jets.

 

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Which country has ASAT missile?

India launched its first anti-satellite weapon (ASAT), as part of its Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, in 2019. The interceptor successfully shot down an out-of service Indian satellite in a low Earth orbit. The test dubbed Mission Shakti, was a joint programme of the DRDO and the Indian Space Research Organisation. With the successful completion of the test, India became only the fourth country after the U.S., Russia and China to have this space weapon technology. Anti-satellite weapons, called ASAT systems, are capable of attacking enemy satellites in space by jamming communications or destroying them. ASAT missiles also act as a space deterrent in dissuading rivals from targeting the country’s satellite network. Satellites are important for a country’s infrastructure as a large number of crucial applications such as navigation and communication networks, banking, stock markets and weather forecasting, are now satellite-based. Destroying satellites could cripple these services. An ASAT system can even target a ground station and stop transmission of information from the satellite attached to it. The system can also direct a manoeuvrable satellite to smash into another satellite!

India has a long standing and rapidly growing space programme. It has expanded rapidly in the last five years. The Mangalyaan Mission to Mars was successfully launched. Thereafter, the government sanctioned the Gaganyaan Mission which will take Indians to outer space.

India has also undertaken 102 spacecraft missions consisting of communication satellites, earth observation satellites, experimental satellites, navigation satellites, apart from satellites meant for scientific research and exploration, academic studies and other small satellites. India’s space programme is a critical backbone of India’s security, economic and social infrastructure.

The test was done to verify that India has the capability to safeguard our space assets.

 

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What is Astra Missile?

Astra is a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) class of Air-to-Air Missile (AAM) system designed to be mounted on fighter jets. With a 15-kg high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead, Astra has a range of over 70 km and can fly towards its target at a speed of over 5,555 km/hr. It has an all weather day-and-night capability. The missile is being developed in multiple variants to meet specific requirements.

The missile has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), along with almost 50 other public and private organisations, which were involved in multiple variants to meet specific requirements.

For the IAF trials, the Astra Mk-I Weapon system integrated with SU-30 Mk-I aircraft was carried out by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

 

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India’s indigenously designed Arjun Mk-1A clears trials, ready to go into production

Arjun Mk-1A dubbed Hunter Killer, is an all-weather 68-tonne battle tank featuring a 120mm main gun. An improved version of the indigenously developed Arjun main battle tank (MBT). Arjun Mk-1A has successfully completed necessary trials. The Mk 1-A sports a sophisticated gunners main sight integrated with automatic target tracking. This would enable the tank crew to track moving targets automatically. The gun is controlled by a computerised fire control system, giving the tank higher kill capability.

The battle tank will have a crew of four — commander, gunner, loader and driver. Keeping them out of harm’s way is paramount. For this, Arjun Mk-1A comes with a slew of new features.

Balamurugan said Track Width Mine Plough (TWMP) is a significant addition which provides capability for the battle tank to cross minefields with ease as the plough mounted to the front of the vehicle creates a mine-free path by ploughing through mines and throwing them to the sides of the tank.

Another key feature added is a Containerised Ammunition Bin with Individual Shutter (CABIS) that gives crew enhanced protection from inadvertent burning of ammunition stored in the ready round bin.

The hot gases generated due to ammunition burning is vented out by blow-off panels from the roof of the turret, thus saving the crew.

 

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India successfully tests Rudram-1: First indigenous anti-radiation missile

The New Generation Anti Radiation Missile (NGRAM), also called RudraM-1, was test-fired from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force earlier this month. With a speed of Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound). The missile is capable of bringing down a wide range of enemy radar systems, communication networks and air defence systems within a range of up to 250 km. The missile has been designed to be launched from various fighter aircraft Currently in the inventory of the IAF. It is also equipped with state of the art radiation tracking and guidance system.

Conducting yet another test of a indigenously developed weapons system, the Defence Research and Development Organisation on Friday conducted a successful test of the New Generation Anti Radiation Missile (NGRAM) also called the Rudram-1 at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Balasore.

The missile has been designed to be launched from various fighter aircraft currently in the inventory of the Indian Air Force. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, “The New Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (Rudram-1) which is India’s first indigenous anti-radiation missile developed by DRDO for Indian Air Force was tested successfully today at ITR, Balasore. Congratulations to DRDO & other stakeholders for this remarkable achievement.”

DRDO scientists said that the missile has been designed to further enhance the Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD) capability of the IAF. Anti Radiation Missiles are primarily designed to track and neutralise the radar and communication assets of the adversary. Officials said that the development of the anti radiation missiles of this type was started by the DRDO around eight years ago and has been a collaborative effort of various DRDO facilities in India.

 

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What is the career in Graphic Designing?

Doodling for a living

Graphic designing is a form of visual communication. It includes doodling, illustrations, and photography. Doodling as an art form is gaining popularity. With no defend rules, a doodle can be anything that is quirky and funny. It doesn’t need to follow any set pattern. The motive of a doodle is to send across a thought or a message to the audience. It can be social cause or narration of an incident or anything that the illustrators find interesting.

What are the job prospects?

Print, web and other media increasingly focusing on visual appeal to attract subscribers has opened up a plethora of opportunities in the field of graphic design and illustration. Editorial illustrators work or freelance for magazines or newspapers, while book illustrators design children’s adult’s books. Illustrators can also create their own comics and cartoons. Animation studios also hire illustrators and graphic designers.

Required skills

  • Graphic designers or illustrators need to find an individual voice, a distinct style, which will define their work and set them apart from others.
  • Excellent drawing and sketching skills are a perquisite along with a dash of creativity and humour.
  • Ability to come up with interesting ideas for the graphcs, observational skills and ability to meet deadlines.

What to study?

Many colleges offer graphic design and visual design courses. Unfortunately, they don’t yet have courses concentrating solely on illustration. Students have the option of taking up either applied art or fine art and then specializing in illustration.

Where

  • National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad: Bachelor and a Master of Design in Graphic Design.
  • Sir JJ. Institute of Applied Art: Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts in Applied Art.
  • Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology, Bengaluru: Visual Communication Design specializing in illustration.
  • Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath’s College of Fine Arts, Bengaluru: Bachelors, postgraduate courses and diplomas in Visual, Applied, and Graphic Art.
  • Abroad:
  • Leeds art University, the U.K.: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (Hons.) in Comic and Concept Art, B.A. (Hons.) Illustration, B.A. (Hons.) Visual Communication and B.A. (Hons.) in Graphic Design.
  • Kingston University, London, the U.K.: B.A. (Hons.) Graphic Designs; B.A. (Hons.) Illustration Animation.
  • School of Visual Arts, New York City, the U.S.: B.F.A. in Cartooning, B.F.A Illustration, M.F.A Illustration as Visual Essay.
  • Rhode Island School of Design, the U.S.: B.F.A in Graphic Design and illustration.

 

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What is the career in the Sustainable architecture?

Imagine a wall mounted with a vertical garden, harboring different species of plants that act as a natural air filter, counter tops made from recycled made from recycled glass; solar and wind-powered heating and cooling systems. These are the houses of the future. I the face climate change, architects are coming up with creative designs that minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings. This is known as sustainable or green architecture. Modern buildings are responsible for around 19% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Designing sustainable buildings helps reduce emissions, and mitigate the effects of climate change. So if you are interested in making the world a better place, sustainable architecture could be your calling.

How it works

Sustainable architecture uses a conscious approach to energy and ecological conservation in the design of buildings and cities. This is to ensure that our actions and decisions do not have a negative impact on our beloved planet. The role of sustainable architects is to reduce the impact on environment at every stage of building. They make moderate use of materials and energy, and reduce waste. They look for greener alternatives to raw materials that harm the environment, and opt for clean energy to reduce the carbon footprint of the structures.

Required skills

** Understanding of environmental sustainability

** Knowledge of construction and building technology

** Adopting sustainable design to climate change and other environmental challenges

** Expertise in CAD (computer-aided design)

Scope

The field of sustainable building design has gained global importance in the last two decades. Most countries in the world have developed a green rating system for buildings. In some countries sustainable architecture has become mandatory. And so, sustainable architects are in demands in both public and private sectors. The U.S. Green Building Council developed the Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) programme that certifies qualified individuals as LEED) Green associates. As a LEED Green Associate, you can find job opportunity in architecture firms, consulting services, educational services, engineering services, building, developing and general contracting across the world.

What to study?

Master of Architecture (M.Arch)-Sustainable Architecture is a pre-requisite to work in this field.

Where

India

** College of Architecture, Bhratiya Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune: One of the oldest institutes to offer a two-year M.Arch (Sustainable Architecture).

** School of architecture and Planning Vijayawada: Tagged as an institute of national importance by the Ministry of Human Resource Development it offers M.Arch (Sustainable Architecture).

** National Institute of Technology. Hamirpur, Himchal Pradesh: It is one of the few institutes in the country to offer both B.Arch as well as M.Arch in Sustainable Architecture.

Abroad

** Norwegian University of Science and technology M.Sc in sustainable Architecture

** Sheffield University, the U.K: M.Sc in sustainable Architecture Studies

** Yale School of Architecture, the U.S: a specialization in Environmental Design is available under M.Arch.

 

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What is the career in photography?

With the boom in advertising, media and fashion industry, photography, from a mere hobby, is emerging as a lucrative career choice. Travel and travel documentary photography is one of the most thrilling forms of photography. It offers a chance to travel to less-known places, meet indigenous people, and document their historical and cultural significance.

A pretty picture

 To begin with, you must pick a niche or an area of interest. However, if your interest is not commercially viable, you may have to take an other assignments to pay the bills. Most travel photographers like to strike a balance between assignments that align with their interests and those that are financially lucrative. Once your networks are in place and you ave developed a name for yourself, you may find it necessary to work on assignments that do not interest you.

What are the job prospects?

Careers in photography branch out in different directions. Travel and travel documentary photography hold a plethora of opportunities, as people are interested in travel, especially to less-explored places. This particular branch of photography is similar to photo journalism and focusses on telling stories through images.

Travel magazines, channels and photo-sharing websites recruit travel photographers on a freelance or full-time basis. Most photographers prefer to work as freelancers so that they can take or multiple assignments.

Travel photographers can also freelance for resorts and government tourism departments.

While the world has come to a halt currently because of the coronavirus pandemic, the interest in travel and photography is expected to revive after normalcy returns.

What to study?

One doesn’t need a specific degree to work as a photographer. However, many photography schools in India and abroad offer short-term courses and diplomas in different areas of photography.

Where:

  • Uddan School of Photography in Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata: One-year and two-year diploma programmes in Commercial Photography.
  • Light and Life Academy in Udhagamandalam Tamil Nadu: Diploma in Travel and Nature Photography.
  • Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication, Delhi: Foundation in Photography (two months) and PG Diploma in Professional Photography (16 months).

Abroad:

  • New York Institute of Photography, the U.S.: Online courses – The Complete Course in Professional Photography, Digital Photography: Photoshop for Photographers, Marketing for Photographers, and the Video Making and Storytelling and The Fundamentals of Digital Photography.
  • Goldsmiths University, the U.K.: Master of Arts (M.A.) Photography and Urban Cultures; and M.A. Photography: The Image and Electronic Arts.
  • Speos International Photo School, Paris and London: Courses in Studio Photography and CGI, Sports photography, Photojournalism, and Fashion Photography.

Required skills

  • Passion for photography
  • Knowledge of cameras and angles
  • Creativity of come up with different camera angles and photo ideas
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to tell a story through the photos
  • Patience to wait for the perfect shot
  • Stamina to cope with hectic schedules, travel to remote places and long days
  • Familiarity with digital editing tools
  • Interpersonal and marketing skills
  • Editing skills

 

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What is the career in palaeontology?

The formidable dinosaurs from Jurassic Park and the super-sized parrots that lived on Earth millions of years ago maybe extinct today, but you can learn all about them by studying their petrified remains. By examining fossils of prehistoric plants and animals that existed on Earth, palaentologists try to trace the evolution of life on Earth. What makes their work relevant today, you ask? Well, uncovering details about the past climates and extinctions helps palaeontologists try discover patterns in climate change, and in a way, predict the future. So if you are interested in history and exploring the natural world, the field of palaeontology could be the right fit for you.

How it works?

Palaeontology is the study of fossils to trace the evolution of life on Earth. There are two major branches of palaeontology: vertebrate and invertebrate. Invertebrate palaeontology examines fossils of plants, microbes, molluscs, corals, crabs, shrimps, sea urchins and sponges. There are abundant invertebrate fossils in the world. On the other hand, the fossils of vertebrate are rare and harder to find.

Scope

Palaeontologists work with archaeological departments and geological research institutes in India and overseas. Apart from research, you can teach in universities.

Opportunities:

Here’s a list of specialisations in palaeontology:

  • Microplaeontologists study microscopic fossils.
  • Plaeobotanists conduct research on fossil plants, including algae and fungi.
  • Palynologists study pollen and spores.
  • Human palaeontologists or palaeoanthropologists focus on the fossils of prehistoric humans.
  • Taphonomists study the process that creates fossils.
  • Ichnologists hunt for fossil tracks, trails and footprints, such as the dinosaur tracks found in Arkansas in 2011.

What to study?

Palaeontology is an interdisciplinary field involving geology, archaeology, chemistry, biology and anthropology. Most people prefer to opt for Palaeontology after B.Sc in Geology.

Where to study?

  • Geological Survey of India, Hyderabad, offers a course in palaeontoloy.
  • Jadavpur University, Kolkata teaches palaeontology as part of B.Sc (Geology Honours) and M.Sc (Applied Geology).
  • Hansraj college, University of Delhi: B.Sc (Hons) in Geology

Abroad:

  • University of Birmingham, the U.K.: Palaeontology and Geology B.Sc (Hons)
  • University of Bristol, the U.K.: B.Sc Palaeontology and Evolution.
  • University of Southampton, the U.K.: Master of Research and M.Sc in Geology.
  • University of London, Birkbeck: Two-year certificate course in Earth History and Palaeontology.
  • University of Kansas, the U.S.: MS in Geology.

Required skills

  • Willingness to conduct hard field work in remote locations.
  • Extensive research
  • Patience
  • Deductive and analytical skills

 

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What is the career in marine biology and conservation?

Marine conservation involves a study of marine organisms and evaluating threats posed to them and taking action to protect and rehabilitate them. Working as a marine conservationist can be highly satisfying as you can make a meaningful contribution to the planet, live in exotic places and lead on unconventional work life. Majority of the conservation efforts, today, focus on coral reefs, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.

What are the prospects?

Although India has a vast coastline, marine conservation is a relatively new field in India. The rising threats to our oceans and the boom in marine sports such as scuba diving and sailing has sparked interest in exploring the ocean and preserving it. Conservation firms and government bodies are in need of experts who can research and advise them on protecting marine life. There are several opportunities for entrepreneurs to come up with their own organizations and initiatives. India holds more potential compared to other countries, which are already saturated with marine biologists.

Required skills

  • Interest in marine conservation
  • Awareness about environmental issues and in-depth knowledge of climate change
  • Knowledge of Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics
  • Numerical and statistics skills
  • Practical fieldwork skills
  • Research-oriented mindset
  • Patience and good observation skills
  • Excellent teamwork and personal communication abilities
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weathers – perhaps at sea

Where to study

Many Indian universities offer a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Marine Biology, but only Science undergraduate can pursue this postgraduation. Foreign universities offer undergraduate and Master’s courses in both Marine Biology and Conservation.

India

  • Department of Ocean Studies and Marine Biology, Pondicherry University, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar campus: M.Sc. Marine Biology
  • Cochin University of Science and Technology Kerala: M.Sc. in Oceanography
  • Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat: M.Sc. (Aquatic Biology)

Abroad

  • University of Tasmania in Australia: Bachelor of Marine and Antarctic science
  • Scripts Institution of Oceanography, University of San Diego, the U.S.: Master of Advanced Studies Program in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation.
  • Florida Institute of Technology, the U.S.: Bachelors in Science (B.S.) in Marine Conservation

Start volunteering!

Solid practical experience is key. Being involved with different projects, working on diverse hypotheses and learning about different species and processes also help keep an open mind while gaining experience beyond your selected subject. Volunteer opportunities are offered everywhere today and are easily found, thanks to the Internet. You can volunteer with Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Bengaluru, WWF, Reefwatch and other such organizations.

 

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What is the career in the field of Intellectual Property Rights and Copyright law?

In today’s innovation-driven world, where corporate giants clash regularly over ideas and trademarks, copyright laws play and important role. They protect intellectual property (IP), which can be defined as any intangible property that is a product of creativity, and is covered by copyrights, patents and trademarks. With authors, musicians inventors and entrepreneurs lining up to protect their work, careers in intellectual property rights (IPR) are booming.

How it works

Intellectual property law enables individuals to claim exclusive rights and financial gain from what they invent or create, which is a benefit to both creators and the public. IP lawyers procure the right to new ideas and protect the existing creations. The job involves applying for patents, obtaining copyrights and defending it in case of infringement.

What are the job prospects?

There is a lot of patenting activity in countries across the world. And so, the field offers a plethora of jobs ranging from an IPR attorney, who has specialized in copyright infringement law, to patent specialists involved in preparing patents. Intellectual property lawyers also assist in licensing inventions, transferring proprietary technology, drafting licensing agreements, negotiating settlements, and conducting IP due diligence.

What is IP?

Intellectual property is any tangible commodity that is a product of creativity.

What are patents?

A patent is a right granted by the government to inventors in order to exclude others from copying or sharing their products without their permission.

What is a trademark?

A trademark is a word, name, symbol or device that is used in trade with goods to indicate the source of the goods and to distinguish them from the goods of others.

What is a GI tag?

A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin because of which they posses qualities or a reputation. GIs are part of the intellectual property rights that come under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. In India, GI registration is administrated by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999. GIs are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuff, handicrafts, and industrial products.

What to study?

People from different academic backgrounds can study law. Most law schools offer copyright law as a specialization with the law degree. Some offer separate short-term postgraduate diplomas on the subject.

Where:

  • The Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law, IIT Kharagpur; and Amity Law School, New Delhi: Bachelor of Law (LLB) with specialization in Intellectual Property Rights.
  • N.C. Banerjee Centre for Intellectual Property Rights Studies, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad: IP specialization in LLM and PG Diploma in Patent Law.
  • Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Intellectual Property Studies, Mumbai: PG Diploma in Patent Law and Practice and PG Diploma in Intellectual Property Rights Management.

 

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Dietitian: A ‘healthy’ career choice

With the world dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, dietitians/nutritionists play a very important role in preventive healthcare. They evolve many diet regimes which help in improving immunity and controlling diseases. Today, people from all walks of life, including professionals, sportpersons, businessmen, housewives, and of course people suffering from chronic diseases visit dietitians.

The nutritionist/dietitian’s job is to research the nutritive value of food and understand all food advise people on eating habits and plan diets that will improve health.

With growing general awareness that preventive nutrition can prevent cancer, diabetes, heart attacks, etc. rather than treat a condition after it manifests itself clinically, the role of a dietitian/nutritionist has gained greater significance. Consequently, a career in this field has become attractive.

How to start

On complexion of class XII, science stream students have the option to enroll for the three-year B.Sc/BA course in nutrition but many students study dietetics only after a graduate degree in any one of the following disciplines: home science, medicine, science (with chemistry and/or microbiology), hotel management, and catering. Six-month/one-year certificate/diploma courses in nutrition are also offered by some institutes and universities. You can also sign up for correspondence courses in food and nutrition.

In B.Sc Home Science (Hons), a student can specialise in food & nutrition in the second and third year. The Honours programme admits only students from science backgrounds as its subjects include biochemistry, botany, physics, zoology and chemistry.

At the postgraduate level, you can either do a one-year post graduate diploma in Dietetics and Public Health Nutrition (DDPHN) or a two-year Master’s programme.

Skills and Aptitude

A person opting for a career as dietitian/nutritionist must have an interest in food/food preparation. He/she should also possess good communication skills to interact with people, individually and in groups. In addition he should have patience and a genuine concern for fellow beings.

Career options

  • In hospitals, dietitians work closely with doctors to prepare diet plans for patients as per their needs. They also check quality and hygiene levels in hospital kitchen.
  • In the processed food industry, a dietitian works on the development and improvement of food products and production methods.
  • In hotel industry, dietitians plan for different types of guests and also supervise food production process.
  • Spas and clinics hire dietitians to use them for designing healthy, low-calorie monthly food charts for their customers.
  • Nutritionists have a slightly different field. They work in the areas of food science, community development, research projects and FMCG companies. Their work relates to research aspect. They go beyond diets and move into the science of biochemistry and food science.

 

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What is the career in the field of naval architecture?

From Vasco da Gama’s Sao Gabriel and Christopher Columbus’ Santa Maria to the Mayflower, ships have played an important part in history. These vessels have been part of epic voyages, great bottles and discovery of new homelands. Building these mammoth structures to survive fiercestorms and giant waves is the job of naval architects. They are responsible for the design, construction and the repair of the ships and other marine vessels, including offshore and floating structures. Militaries, commercial ships and maritime companies need ships that are sea-worthy and environment-friendly, and this has driven the demand for naval architects. So if you have a fascination for marine vessels and an eye for detail, the field of naval architecture could be the perfect choice.

How it works

Naval architecture is the science of designing and manufacturing of sea-going vessels. It is a branch of marine engineering. Naval architects can build a variety of marine vessels, including fishing boats, barges, submarines and ships. They take the ultimate responsibility of the safety of the vessel.

Building a ship is a team effort that requires inputs from different types of engineers and professionals. The naval architect ensures that all of them work together to build a strong and sturdy vessel.

Required skills

  • Knowledge of different branches of engineering
  • Mathematical ability
  • Creativity and eye for detail
  • Ability to co-ordinate with other professionals
  • Communication skills
  • Patience and time management
  • Sound judgment and leadership skills

Scope

Naval architects are involved in a variety of work that can be classified into design, construction and repair, consultancy, marketing and sales. Ships and yacht builders, offshore companies and engineering and design consultants need naval architects to design new vessels. Major equipment manufactures also employ naval architects to design products such as propulsion systems and auxiliary systems. A naval architect also oversees ship yards where marine vessels are built, repaired, inspected and tested.

What to study?

Several engineering institutes offer Bachelor and Master of technology (B. Tech and M. tech) in Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering. You need to clear the Joint Entrance Examinations (JEE) for admissions, while some have their entrance examinations.

Where

  • Indian Maritime University, Visakhapatnam: B. Tech and M. Tech in Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering; B.Sc Ship Building and Repair
  • Indian Institute of Technology, Madras: B. Tech and M. Tech in Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering.
  •  Cochin University of Science and Technology: B. Tech in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding.

Abroad:

  • Newcastle University, the U.K.: M.Sc and PG Diploma in Naval Architecture.
  • University of Southampton, the U.K.: M.Sc in Marine Technology.
  • University of Strathclyde, Glasgow: M.Sc in Naval Architecture.
  • University of New Orleans, the U.S.: B.Sc and M.Sc in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.

 

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What is the career in the field of osteoarchaeology and palaeopathology?

When the mighty Mount Vesuvius erupted nearly 2,000 years ago, it devoured everything in its path. The Roman city of Pompeii thriving on the fertile lands around the volcano turned to dust within seconds. Years later, when the buried city was rediscovered, it was found that most of the remains of the city and its residents, were surprisingly well-preserved. By studying the skeletons and other remains, archaeologists were able to put together a detailed account of what the ancient Romans looked like, their lifestyle and even their last moments.

That marked the beginning of the field of osteoarchaeology and palaeopathology, an emerging field of archaeology.

Human osteoarchaeology is the scientific study of human skeletons excavated from archaeological sites. It can tell us about the health, lifestyle, diet, mortality and the physique of people in the past.

Many universities in India and in the U.K. offer postgraduation in Human Osteoarchaeology. So if you are interested in unlocking the rich stories of the past, this could be a promising field.

How it works

Osteoarchaeologists study human remains, while Palaeopathology seeks to understand the nature and scope of past diseases. From studying the mummified remains of ancient Egyptians to assessing the impact of major diseases in history, osteoarchaeology and palaeopathology are crucial to every major archaeological investigation.

Opportunities

  • Archaeological contractor
  • Independent archaeological consultant
  • Local government
  • National heritage agencies
  • Private museums and charities
  • University archaeology departments

Required skills

  • A passion for history
  • Scientific knowledge
  • Patience, analytical and observational skills
  • Willingness to carry out field work
  • Communication skills

What to study?

To get started in the niche field of osteoarchaeology, a background in history is a must. In India, the subject is taught as part of the postgraduate course in Archaeology. However, universities in the U.K. offer specialization in Human Osteoarchaeology.

Where:

  • Deccan College, Pune and Allahabad University: Master of Arts (M.A.) in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology
  • Nagpur University: M.A. in Archaeology
  • University of Edinburgh and university of Sheffield, the U.K.: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Human Osteoarchaeology.
  • Reading University, the U.K.: M.Sc. Professional Human Osteoarchaeology
  • Durham University, the U.K.: M.Sc. Human Bioarchaeology and Palaeopathology

 

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What is the career in the field of product design?

At its best, writing is a fine art. A tool for storytelling over the ages. It’s fitting, then, that the making of writing instruments too is an art in itself. And it’s the product designers who make it happen.

Right from a simple toothbrush to a complex spacecraft, all products that impact our everyday life are designed by product designers. This includes designing writing instruments too – fountain pens for school or work and exclusive stylograph for special occasions to luxury designer pens and collector’s items.

Despite the ubiquity of digital communication, a pen never goes out of fashion. Designer and luxury brands, continue to be in demand. Some of the major brands have also come out with digital pens that can write on augmented paper, which digitizes handwritten work.

With design being the focus of this industry, there is a lot of demand for designers who can come up with elegant designs. Designing luxury writing instruments and products can be a perfect choice for the creative minded.

Required skills

  • Understanding of aesthetics and functionality
  • Creativity and patience
  • Strong design abilities
  • Communication skills and ability to work in teams

How it works

Product designers work in a variety of fields, including furniture, architecture and technical design. Among these, designing writing instruments falls under technical design.

Manufacturers of writing instruments approach designers and design studios to come up with new designs for their products. The designers work closely with the manufacturer’s engineers and craftsmen to design a pen that matches the company’s vision and the client’s needs.

Many luxury brands such as William Penn, Mont Blanc and Lamy have offices in India.

What to study

Many institutes across the country and overseas offer a variety of courses that teach how to design writing instruments, as part of product design. Most of the Indian institutes offer a Bachelor of Design (B.Des) and Master of Design (M.Des) in Product Design. Some of them teach product design as part of Accessory Design and Industrial Arts. In universities abroad, product design is part of Bachelor (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programmes.

Where:

India

  • National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad: B.Des and M.Des in Product Design
  • Symbiosis Institute of Design, Pune: B.Des in Product Design
  • Indian School of Design and Innovation, Parsons, Mumbai: B.Des in Product Design
  • National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi: B.Des in Accessory Design
  • Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bengaluru: B.Des in Industrial Arts and Design Practices
  • MIT Institute of Design, Pune: B.Des in Product Design Abroad
  • The New School, Parsons School of Design, New York: MF.A in Industrial Design
  • Rhode Island School of Design, the U.S.: BFA and MFA in Industrial Design and Furniture Design
  • University of Applied Arts, Vienna: Masters in Industrial Design
  • University of the West of England, the U.K.: Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Product Design

 

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Is baking a good career?

Imagine a workplace where the air is always fragrant with the delicious smell of baking bread. The day is divided between mixing flour and whisking batter. Dallops of cream are scooped on to delectable pastries of all sizes and colours. What a treat it will be, right?

Well, thanks to the increasing popularity of different types of desserts, there is a huge demand for skilled bakers and pastry chefs in the dynamic food and beverage industry.

The culinary art of baking has become serious business. Professional bakers work in five-star hotels, artisan bakeries, television shows and with dessert manufacturers to produce the delicate and delicious creations that glitter temptingly on our social media screens or shop windows.

If you are passionate about baking, working as a professional baker could be a sweet choice. So put on your baker’s apron, grab a bag of flour and start baking!

Scope

The role of a baker involves much more than just baking bread. People with formal training in baking and pastry arts have a plethora of options, including working as pastry chefs or bakers. You can specialise in a specific type of baked good such as wedding cakes or artisan breads. There is a huge demand for customised and creative cakes. This is known as edible art and is a lucrative field. You can also specialise as a chocolatier or a food stylist. Chocolatiers design chocolate bars, truffles and other confectioneries, while food stylists prepare and style food for photo and video shoots.

How it works

Baking is a skill that can be picked up through training and practice. It broadly involves making biscuits, breads, cakes, muffins and pies. Baking is no longer restricted only to conventional local bakeries. While many bake as a hobby, professional bakers are those that put their skills to commercial use. Plant bakers usually work in small-scale, independent bakeries, five-star hotels or a restaurant chain. The last few years also has seen the rise of gourmet bakeries that cater to different tastes and requirements such as gluten-free and vegan goodies.

Required skills

  • Passion for baking
  • Culinary skills
  • Creativity
  • Innovation
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation skills
  • Patience
  • Dedication

What to study?

Anyone can become a baker, but to work in restaurants and hotels, a degree or a certificate course in bakery and confectionery is a pre-requisite. Hotel management colleges offer short-term courses in baking. Recently, some institutes started to offer craftmanship courses in Bakery and Patisserie, accredited by City and Guides (C&G), London.

Where to study:

  • The Institute of Hotel Management Catering and Nutrition, Pusa, New delhi: Diploma in Bakery and Confectionery (C&G)
  • Lavonne Academy of Baking Science and Pastry Arts, Bengaluru: Diploma in Patisserie (C&G)
  • Institute of Bakery and Pastery Arts, New Delhi: Diploma in Bakery and Patisserie Arts
  • Kohinoor College of Hotel and Tourism Management Studies, Mumbai: B.Sc in Hotel Management, along with a certificate course in Bakery
  • Institute of Hotel Management, Kolkata: Craftsmanship course in Food Production and Patisserie – one-and-a-half years
  • Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Goa: Craftsmanship course in Food Production and Patisserie – 24 weeks

Abroad

  • Le Cordon Bleu, London and Paris: It offers a Grand Diploma with Professional Immersion programme (includes a course in French language at the Paris campus) and Diploma in Patisserie – Nine months
  • Edinburgh School of Food and Wine, the U.K.: Diploma in Professional Patisserie
  • Ashburton Chefs Academy, the U.K.: Diploma in Professional Patisserie

 

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What is the clipper route?

Clippers were 19th Century merchant sailing ships that sailed mainly between England and China, Australia and New Zealand. They were fast sailing ships, equipped with multiple square rigged sails supported by three masts. These ships gained in prominence because of the booming tea and opium trade between England and China. The route plied by these ships was called the clipper route.

The clipper route ran down the Atlantic Ocean, rounded the Cape of Good Hope and then went from west to east though the Southern Ocean. The ships took advantage of the Roaring Forties, the strong westerly winds that blow between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees in the southern hemisphere. It was the fastest route available between Europe and Asia before the opening of the Suez Canal. The ships would continue eastwards on the homeward journey from Australia and New Zealand along the Southern Ocean, sail around Cape Horn in South America and another 100 days from there back to England.

The ships plying the clipper route faced dangers like turbulent weather at Cape Horn and huge waves and icebergs in the Southern Ocean. However, ship captains still preferred the unsafe route as it offered fast passage.

The clipper route fell into disuse as a trade route with the opening of the Suez and Panama Canals. Moreover, streamships gradually phased out clippers. Though clippers were fast, their speed was largely determined by winds while streamships were more reliable in sticking to their schedules.

Today, the clipper route remains the fastest sailing route around the world. So it is popular with sailing enthusiasts, especially for modern circumnavigation attempts and yacht races like the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race and Volvo Ocean Race.

 

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What is the career in Horticulture?

Stumbling upon a calm oasis of green in the middle of a bustling metropolis can be oddly comforting. Maybe that’s why even sprawling cities such as New York and London cherish their green spaces. With toxic air pollution choking these green lungs, there is a pressing need for horticulturists and conservationists. Professionals specialising in growing plants (both edible and ornamental) are known as horticulturists. Depending on your interest, you can work in landscaping and design, maintenance, research and conservation, and irrigation. If you can imagine a work-day surrounded with the beauty and charm of greenery, the field of horticulture has a plethora of opportunities.

How it works?

From developing manicured lawns and designing water systems to growing hybrid and exotic varieties of flowers, there’s a lot to horticulture than just gardening. Here’s a list of some of the branches in this field:

Garden design is part of horticulture. Garden designers and conservationists aesthetically improve green spaces by landscaping. They also develop and maintain heritage gardens, grounds and other green spaces.
Arborist care for and manage trees by overseeing planting, pruning and tree removal. Like arborists there are also specialisations in growing fruits and flowers. For instance, florists are experts in flowers – they are the ones who grow beautiful and exotic varieties of flowers and experiment with hybrids.
Forestry technicians help manage, develop and conserve woodlands. They improve the quality of natural areas and forests.
Irrigation engineers create and develop watering systems for different landscapes, areas and projects. These projects can range from agriculture and crop irrigation to dams, drainage systems and canals, as well as commercial and residential projects.
Conservation and research involves coming up with new ways of cultivating plants using greenhouses and other methods, and developing their resistance to pests and protecting plants.

Required skills

  • A passion for plants and the environment
  • Creativity and attention to detail
  • Problem solving and critical thinking skills
  • Communication skills
  • Research orientation

Scope

Horticulture professionals works access a gamut of organisations, from government agencies to research department at universities. Some jobs emphasise the technological aspects of research and science, while others are more hands-on in nature. Those interested in garden design can work with landscape construction companies or a curators and consultants in botanical gardens. Those keen on maintenance and development can work as plantation managers overseeing the operations of a plantation. Aspirants inclined towards research can find opportunities in government agencies, horticulture societies and universities.

What to study

Educational requirements for a career in horticulture typically include a Bachelor or Master of Science (B.Sc or M.Sc) in Horticulture. An engineering background – Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) or Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Civil Engineering – is needed if you want to work as an irrigation engineer.

Where

  • Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu: B.Sc in Horticulture
  • University of Calcutta: M.Sc Agriculture (Horticulture)
  • INDIAN Institute of Technology Bombay, Delhi, Kharagpur, Kanpur, Roorkee and Madras offer B.E. and B.Tech in Civil Engineering
  • Institute of Horticulture Technology, Delhi: Certificate courses in Production Technology of Cut Flowers and Open Glasshouse Supervison, Fruit Production, Year Round Vegetable Production

Abroad:

  • Cornwall College, University of Plymouth: B.Sc (Hons) Horticulture (Garden and Landscape Design) and B.Sc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science)
  • SRUC Scotland’s Rural College, Edinburg: B.Sc (Hons) in Garden and Greenspace Design and B.Sc (Hons) Horticulture
  • The Royal Horticultural Society, the U.K.: Level 1, 2 and 3 qualifications in Plant Growth, Propagation and Development; Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance; and Practical Horticulture
  • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the U.K.: Diploma in Horticulture – three years.

 

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What can you do with a peace and conflict studies degree?

“What difference does it make to the dead, the orphans and the homeless, whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or in the holy name of liberty or democracy?” – Mahatma Gandhi.

War is the horrible, brutal, senseless annihilation of humanity. Whether it is for land, water or oil, nations, communities are constantly resorting to violence against each other. The aftermath of these bloody confrontations often leave behind a trail of destruction – communities uprooted from their homes, scarcity of resources and countless innocent lives lost.

One doesn’t have to look far to see the remnants of war. The beautiful Kashmir valley lies ravaged as tensions between India and Pakistan refuse to die down. Look at the plight of the Rohingya community, chased out of their homeland they are living in pathetic conditions in parts of India.

Strong policies to promote peace and peace-keeping are the need of the hour. And that’s exactly what the field of peace and conflict studies hopes to achieve. An emerging field in India, conflict studies equips you to understand the politics of war and its effect on the people. It charts out the problems of the people in conflict zones and helps in coming up with policies to promote peace.

So if you are interested in working ‘world peace’, this field will help you in achieving your goal.

Scope

With a Master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies you can work an understanding of conflicts are need in government agencies such as the ministry of foreign affairs and international organisations, such as the UN and NATO. Peace and conflict experts are also in demand in non government organisations working for the communities affected by war or engaging in peace-keeping activities. A background in peace and conflict studies can also help media professionals such as war correspondents, who cover conflicts. Other opportunities are in fields of aw, international relations, human rights, and public administration.

How it works

Peace and conflict studies encompass a wide range of issues from war and humanitarian intervention to peacebuilding and international cooperation to sustainable development and social justice. Peace and Conflict Studies is a relatively new and still evolving discipline that has gained a large amount of attention in the past few years. This is due to various trends such as globalisation, the expanding role of the United Nations and other international institutions focussed on peace and security, the growth of international NOs of all types, and the increasing prominence of armed conflicts, terrorism, and environmental issues in media coverage around the world.

Required skills

  • Research orientation
  • Analytical skills
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Communication skills
  • An interest in history
  • Knowledge of current affairs and international relations
  • Willingness to work in conflict zones

What to study

While you do not need any particular degree to work in the field of international relations and conflict resolution, an academic background in conflict studies is recommended. Many colleges and universities in India and abroad offer post graduate courses in Peace and Conflict Studies. These courses can range from a short-term diploma to a full-fledged master’s programme of two years.

Where

  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Guwahati: Master of Arts (M.A.) Peace and Conflict Studies.
  • Nelson Mandela Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi: M.A. Conflict Analysis.
  • Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts, Symbiosis International University, Pune: Violence, Conflict and Peace Studies courses.
  • University of Mysore: M.A. in Peace and Conflict Resolution; DIPLOMA IN Gandhian Studies.
  • Department of Peace and Conflict Study and Management Sikkim University: M.A. Peace and Conflict Studies

Abroad

  • University of Oslo, Norway: Master’s Programme in Peace and Conflict Studies
  • Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Graduate School of Global Studies: M.A. in Peace and Conflict Studies.

 

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What is the career in Indology?

A passage to India

India, home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, has captured the world’s imagination for centuries now. The rise and fall of its mighty kingdoms, its protected struggle for Independence and its ancient traditions – Ayurveda and yoga for instance, continue to attract the world’s attention. Little wonder there’s an entire discipline of social sciences dedicated to the study of this mystic land.

Indology or India Studies, helps us understand India’s past, its culture and finally, its evolution into the world’s largest democracy.

Becoming an Indologist is a good option for those students who enjoy learning history and Sanskrit and take pride in India’s ancient traditions.

Scope

Today, opportunities in Indology are largely in academics and research. But the subject is also useful for those interested in understanding the nature and dynamics of Indian Culture and society, particularly to teachers of higher educational institutions, journalists, and those pursuing careers in tourism, archaeology and museums.

Opportunities

** Universities and colleges

** Library and research centres

** Archaeology institutes

** Museums and archives

** Tourism industry

Required skills

** Knowledge of ancient Indian languages, especially Sanskrit

** Research orientation

** Linguistic skills

** Interest in history

How it works

Indology as a subject began in the 18th Century when English scientist William Jones started the Asiatic Society of Bengal. Also, world-wide interest in Indian languages, culture, geography and political climate grew considerably after World War II when India gained Independence from the British Raj.

There are two branches of Indology: classical, which looks at the past; and modern, which studies the contemporary scenario. Classical Indology focuses on Sanskrit and other ancient languages. On the other hand, modern Indology is relevant to the understanding of the current situation in India and uses multiple language sources and social approaches.

What to study

There is paucity of institutes in India offering courses in Indology. Surprisingly, many foreign universities have a chair in Indology and so encourage graduation and postgraduation in Indology and South Asian Studies.

Where

In India:

** Centre for Indological Studies and Research, Ramakrishna Mission Institute of culture (RMIC), Kolkata: A 10-month course in Indology.

** School of Indology, Nalanda Open University: M.A. in History and B.A. (Hons) in History. Certificate courses in Buddhist Studies, Christian Studies, Hindu Studies, Islamic Studies, Jain Studies and Sikh Studies.

** Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi: B.A. Philosophy; M.A. Philosophy; and PG Diploma in Indian Philosophy and Religion.

** Shri Balmukund Lohia Centre of Sanskrit and Indological Studies, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune: (B.A.) Visharad in Sanskrit; Parangat (M.A.) in Sanskrit; Parangat (M.A.) in Sanskrit; Parangat in Indology (M.A.)

Abroad:

** Institute for Indology and Tibetology, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany: Bachelors and Masters in Indology; Ph.D. programme in Buddhism Studies.

** University of Wuerzburg, Germany: Bachelors of Indology / South Asian Studies.

** Heidelberg University, Germany: Cultural and Religious History of South Asia (Classical Indology)

** University of Tuebingen, Germany: Bachelors in Modern India and Masters in Indology

** Australian National University: Bachelors of Asian and Pacific Studies

** School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London: M.A. Intensive South Asian Studies

 

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What is the career in film making?

A director’s role

The director translates a script creatively, decides the cast, costumes, venue of shoot and chooses technicians and producers to help the director manage the entire production by looking into the operational aspects that include hiring technicians, managing locations, arranging camera rentals and so on.

According to Chowdhury, the first thing one requires to become a director is a knack for films. “You need to watch a lot of films. I started watching Hindi and Bengali cinema and then moved onto foreign films,” he says.

It is equally important to acquire knowledge of all the aspects of film making. A director has to be involved in each and every process from scripting and dialogue writing to editing. “One should be able to close one’s eyes and visualize the entire film,” says Chowdhury.

Good communication and planning skills will help in conveying thoughts and ideas clearly to the entire crew and get work done on time.

What to study?

Film making is taught as part of mass media at an undergraduate level. You can opt for special courses offered by film schools for further specializations.

Where:

Film and Television Institute of India, Pune: Three year post graduate diploma in Direction and Screenplay Writing.
Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi: Master of Arts in Mass Communication.
Satyaji Ray Film and Televiison Institute, Kolkata: Three year post graduate programme in Cinema.
Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai: Diploma in Film, Television and Digital Video Production.

Challenges

Film-making is a labourious art form, requiring a lot of hard work and discipline. “Making a film is not as simple as it looks. There are many variables at play.” says Chowdhury.  “A director has to juggle all of them.”

One should be able to make last-minute changes and at the same time stick to the budget. “Sometimes while shooting it may suddenly rain and you will have to change the location or reschedule the shoot. This can cost a lot and budgeting and planning skills are important,” he adds.

Another challenge is co-ordination and understanding of people. A director has to handle actors, (which can be a tough job) hone their skills and abilities the way it’s needed in the film. This requires an understanding of people and how to motivate them to give their best.

One should be willing to constantly learn and relearn everything they know. “You are always learning. You have to stay abreast of new technology and the latest in cinema and film-making,” adds Chowdhury.

Director’s speak

Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury fell in love with cinema when he watched his first film Haathi Mere Saathi, in a quaint single-screen cinema hall at the age of 10. But it took him a long time for his dream to be fulfilled. To begin with, Chowdhury, who directed Pink, had no idead how to get started in the industry. Coming from a middle-class background, Chowdhury was the first one in his family to venture into films. “There was no one to advise me or guide me. So I used to hang around at Tollygunge Studio in Kolkata daily to see what was happening there. At that time it was the only way I could get a peek into film-making,” says Chowdhury, quickly adding that he wouldn’t recommend this to others. Slowly, he began helping out on the sets and later took on full-time work as a film-executive at a private studio. “I slogged it out at the studio for five to six years. There was very little money, but I made it a point to familiarize myself with every aspect of film production, which is essential if you want to become a director,” adds Chowdhury.

With some experience under his belt, he moved onto making telefilms for Doordarshan, and there was no looking back after that. “I got to travel a lot and became involved in the film-making process and I realised that I have stories that I want to share with people (through films),” he adds.

 

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What is the career in Architectural journalism?

 

Whether it is the Taj Mahal, the Pantheon or the Notre-Dame Cathedral, all great monuments are timeless. And it is the job of the architecture journalists to document these spires and domes for posterity.

Architectural journalism has emerged as a language that helps internet, understand and celebrate new ideas and the built environment. Many architecture colleges in India have started offering Architectural Journalism as an interdisciplinary subject. So if you are interested in combing your passion for design and writing, this field holds promise.

How it works

Architecture journalists write about architecture and design. They comment and critique on the architecture and its philosophy.

Often architects with a flair for writing pursue architectural journalism, but you can develop a career in this field even without a background in architecture, if you have a keen sense of aesthetics and design and brush up your knowledge on architecture by reading voraciously on the subject.

Scope

Newspapers, magazines and architecture journals and even web portals hire architecture and design writers and critics to write about architectural projects, track the latest trends and developments. Besides national publications, you can also work for several international publications. If you are inclined towards academics, you can also teach the subject in design schools.

Required skills

  • Insights and deep understanding of architectural projects
  • Technical writing skills
  • Communication skills and ability to simplify jargons for readers
  • Design interpretation and creative thinking
  • Research skills
  • Knowledge and expertise in architecture
  • Ability to critique and spot trends in architecture

What to study

Architecture is a highly specialized field, so having Bachelors in Architecture (B. Arch) will give you insights and the necessary expertise to comment on architectural projects. Many architecture colleges offer Architectural Journalism as an elective in B. Arch. Admissions for B. Arch are based on the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) examination, conducted by the Council of Architecture to shortlist students for admissions to B. Arch in different architecture schools in the country. (Note: The NATA is now held twice a year – in April and in July).

But if you do not want invest three to five years in B. Arch, you can also opt for a journalism course and then specialize in architectural journalism by interning in architecture magazines and journals.

Where

  • Chandigarh College of Architecture: B. Arch with Architectural Journalism elective.
  • Rachna Sansad Academy of Architecture, Mumbai: B. Arch (five years, full-time) and B. Voc Interior Design (three years, full-time).
  • The Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies; Mumbai: B. Arch and M. Arch in Urban Design and Urban Conservation.
  • Padmabhushan Dr. Vasantdata Patil College of Architecture, Pune: B. Arch; M. Arch Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.
  • University of Mumbai: Master’s in Communication and Journalism.
  • Asian College of Journalism, Chennai: PG Diploma in Journalism.
  • Newhouse’s Goldring Arts Journalism Programme Syracuse University, New York: Master’s in Arts Journalism. This includes Architectural Journalism.
  • Stonebridge University, the U.K.: Diploma course in Freelance Journalism.

 

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What is soap opera?

 

The term came into use in the 1930’s when US soap companies sponsored several radio dramas. These dramas aired for 15 to 30 minutes every day.

Most soap operas have a large cost and a long-running story. The story extends over years with hundreds of episodes. Each episode ends with a suspenseful cliff-hanger that keeps viewers coming back for more.

The soap opera genre was created by American Irna Phillips who wrote the serial Painted Dreams for radio in 1930.

Examples of popular modern soaps are Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty in the US and in India, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.

 

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What is the career in creative writing?

Choosing to lead a writer’s life is always difficult. There is no steady income; chances are slimmer than winning the lottery. What’s worse, you are constantly haunted by characters from the past and future: some bursting inside you, waiting to be born, others are demanding a happy ending. Sleepless nights, too many cups of coffee, and eyes that are constantly in search of a story, a twist, come to define you. All in all its not an easy life, certainly not for the fainthearted. Yet those bitten by the writing bug will not choose any other. For them, writing is not just a means to earn a livelihood, it is a compulsion, a tearing need to express. As essential as breathing.

Scope

Creative writing is a skill that comes in handy in all fields. So there are opportunities galore. From lawyers to TV reporters, eloquence and out-of-the-box thinking stand to benefit one and all. So even a basic course in creative writing can add to your resume in whichever profession you choose.

Intensive creating writing courses are generally taken up by aspiring writers. You can create original written works as a poet, writer, or a lyricist. The advertising sector is constantly in search of copywriters who can think creatively and come up with catchy lines. Similarly, you can work in the publishing industry: as a book editor. Public relations and corporate communication are also some of the avenues open to those with a flair for writing.

Challenges

Completing an article, a book or even a short story can often be a struggle. So you need to be highly motivated to write. There will be tight deadlines to meet whether you are working on your own book or on a project. It may take you a while to find a publisher for your work. But if you truly love writing, then keep at it, and maybe someday you will hit gold!

How it works

It is often said that writing cannot be taught. In fact, many of today’s bestselling writers followed non-arts related career paths and eventually turned to writing. But if you are serious about the craft, you will need a creative writing programme to whip your writing into shape.

What to study?

While you do not need any specific degree or academic background to become a professional writer, a degree in English literature and Creative Writing is recommended. If you want to specialize in journalism, many universities offer journalism or mass communication courses at undergraduate and post-graduate level.

Where:

India:

  • Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi: Creative writing is taught as part of Master of Arts (M.A.) in English Literature.
  • Jadavpur University, Kolkata: Offers practical courses in Creative Writing and Theatre Studies as part of B.A. and M.A. in English.
  • Delhi University: B.A. Honours (Hons) in Creative Writing
  • The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad: B.A. (Hons) English and M.A. in English Literature
  • Indian Institute of Mass Communication New Delhi: Post Graduate Diploma Course in English Journalism
  • Asian College of Journalism, Chennai: Post Graduate Diploma Course in Journalism (Print, New Media, Radio and Television.)
  • Symbiosis Centre for Media and Communication Pune: B.A. and M.A. (Mass Communication)

Abroad:

  • Oxford University, in the U.K.: Master of Studies (M.St) Creative Writing is a two-year, part-time course for post graduates.
  • Cambridge University, the U.K.: Master of Studies (M.St) Creative Writing is designed for those who wish to develop high-level skills in creative writing both in fiction and non-fiction.
  • Columbia University in the U.S: Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A) in Writing.

Some creative writing courses require you to submit a manuscript along with your college application.

 

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I want to become a fashion designer

I am a student of Class X and I want to become a fashion designer. Which stream should I take in Class XI? Is there any scope in this field?

A diploma in fashion design technology is the minimum requirement to enter this field. However, many employers prefer a bachelor’s degree with knowledge of textiles, fabrics and fashion trends. A portfolio, representative of a designer’s best work, is sometimes more important in finding a job than an extensive education.

Many polytechnics and institutes all over India offer courses in fashion designing. Duration of the courses varies from new months to five years. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is the premier institution professional training in various areas of the fashion industry.

The continued demand for all types of apparel, growth in population and rising personal incomes will favourably affect the need for fashion designers. However, competition for good jobs is expected to be very intense. But individuals with the necessary personal traits, such as creativity and perseverance, may have less difficulty establishing and maintaining careers in fashion designing.

 

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I want to be a paleontologist

I am a student of Class X. I want to be a paleontologist. What should I take in class 11? Are there any institutions in India or even abroad for paleontology? What courses should I take? Is there scope in India for this?

Paleontology is more than just dinosaurs! It is the study of the history of life on Earth as reflected in the fossil record. Fossils are the remains or traces of organisms (plants, animals, fungi, bacteria and other single-celled living things) that lived up to billions of years ago. It’s an interdisciplinary field involving geology, archaeology, chemistry, biology and anthropology.

To enter this field, take physics, chemistry and biology in 10+2. Then go for graduation followed by a Master’s degree in paleontology, geology or earth science. A doctoral degree or Ph.D. is almost always necessary for any serious professional career in paleontology, especially as a researcher or a professor.

Paleontologists are employed by both public and private sectors. Museums hire them to locate and identify fossilized remains for exhibits and for additional research. There they work as curators, researchers, collection managers, etc. They may work with geologists for identifying fossils, giving programmes or tours, consulting with industry. A few work for oil companies or in government as consultants helping to solve geological problems.

 

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I’m only interested in music

I’m currently studying in Class XI. I’m not interested in NEET or JEE. Though I’m a biology student I’m only interested in music. I love singing but I’m not a trained singer. What are the courses I need to complete to be a professional singer? Are there any colleges in India that preferably have courses in western music?

In order to become a professional singer, start with some basic music training. Also learn multiple music instruments; this will help you in identifying your style of singing. Make your demo song recordings and promote yourself online.

There are no educational requirements for singers interested in performing popular music. Formal education is more likely to be required for classical music. Still singers need extensive training and regular practice, as the qualities of a singer’s voice affect his/her ability to be successful. You must take lessons from a qualified guru. Short-term training in western music is provided by private institutes all over India.

Some good colleges are:

  • Bhatkhande College of Hindustani Music, Lucknow
  • Kalakshetra, Madras
  • National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama (Sangeet Natak Academy), New Delhi
  • Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahaba
  • Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata
  • Visva Bharati, Santiniketan

The music industry is always in need of innovative, creative, successful musicians to introduce different styles and various fusions in an attempt to innovate new sounds. But competition is severe and talent alone is no guarantee of success; it requires dedication and sometimes good luck. Developing contacts in the music business is as important as finding opportunities to perform. However, being able to play several types of music or sing in a variety of styles enhances the opportunity to find employment.

 

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WHY DO COMPANIES ADVERTISE?

Companies use all forms of media to advertise their products and services. advertising began simply as a way of telling people about a product, but it is now much more sophisticated. It is used to present the image of a company in a certain way and also to target a particular audience that the company feels it can attract. In this way, the company associates itself with a certain lifestyle. Advertising is a huge business, with large companies investing huge sums of money in anything from sports sponsorship to putting their logo on the side of a milk carton.

Companies use advertisements as part of a marketing program to increase sales of their products and services. Advertising plays a different role at different stages of the marketing process — helping to raise awareness of a product or service, generating leads for a sales force or selling directly. Companies with retail outlets use advertising to make consumers aware of product availability and increase sales through the outlets.

Awareness

Companies use advertising to make customers and prospects aware of the features and benefits of their products. If customers are not aware of your product, they will not consider it when they next make a purchasing decision for the type of product you offer. Advertising puts your product into the consumer’s set of choices.

Brand Preference

Advertising can build a preference for your product over competitors’ offerings. Your advertising messages must reflect the information that customers feel is important when choosing a product. It must also stress the quality of your product. By advertising regularly, you can reinforce the brand messages so that your product becomes first choice when the consumer next makes a purchase.

Direct Sales

Use direct response advertising to sell products directly to customers. The advertisement includes details of the product and its price together with a telephone number or website address where customers can order the product.

Retail Development

Advertising details of retailers or distributors that stock your products builds sales by driving traffic to the outlets. The advertisements can provide information on retail outlets or promote special offers available at those outlets. This type of advertising can also help you promote your products to distributors and retailers.

Lead Generation

If you market products and services through a sales force, you can use advertisements to generate leads for the team to follow up. Include a response mechanism in the advertisement such as a reply coupon, telephone number or email address so that customers can register their details in return for an incentive offer. Examples of incentives include free copies of special reports for business customers or gifts for consumers.

Reputation

When a prospect is selecting a supplier for a major purchase, company reputation is an important factor in the decision. Use advertising to build a positive perception of your company. Reputation or corporate advertising communicates messages about factors such as your company’s achievements, financial stability, market success and innovation record.

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WHAT IS MASS MEDIA?

Certain forms of media, particularly television and newspapers, are able to communicate to thousands or even millions of people at the same time. These mass media can have a very powerful influence on their audience, and often reflect the particular view-point of the media-owner.

Think about this for a second: whenever you want to hear your favorite song, watch your favorite show, or see the latest current events, where do you go? You more than likely turn on your television, radio, or computer. The source that the majority of the general public uses to get their news and information from is considered mass media.

Mass media means technology that is intended to reach a mass audience. It is the primary means of communication used to reach the vast majority of the general public. The most common platforms for mass media are newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and the Internet. The general public typically relies on the mass media to provide information regarding political issues, social issues, entertainment, and news in pop culture.

The mass media has evolved significantly over time. Have you ever wondered how the latest news and information was communicated in the past? Well, before there was the Internet, television, or the radio, there was the newspaper. The newspaper was the original platform for mass media. For a long period of time, the public relied on writers and journalists for the local newspapers to provide them with the latest news in current events.

Centuries later, in the 1890s, came the invention of the radio. The radio would soon supersede the newspaper as the most pertinent source for mass media. Families would gather around the radio and listen to their favorite radio station programs to hear the latest news regarding politics, social issues, and entertainment.

Later on down the line came the invention of the television. The television would soon replace the radio for the most effective platform to reach the general public. Today, the Internet is the most relevant form of mass media and has become a major tool for news outlets. Since the evolution of the Internet, the general public is now able to access those same news outlets in an instant with just a click of a mouse, instead of having to wait for scheduled programs.

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What are the opportunities in water science and management?

When seen from depths of space, Earth appears as a blue sphere. This is because 70% of it made up of water. Despite this, today, the world is on the brink of a major water crisis on account of surging populations and climate change.

The situation is particularly grim in India. This June 19, Chennai city officials declared that ‘Day Zero’ – or the day when almost no water is left – had been reached. The city, teeming with millions, had finally run dry. Dried-out lake and rivers, schools and offices shut down on account of water paucity, and trains and tankers being used to transport water are suddenly becoming a new reality.

With the use of water growing faster than supply, people all over the world are appreciating the severity of the problem. And the field of water science and management is trying to met this challenge. Every year, countries and non-government organisations are coming together to hold summits and frame policies to tackle our imminent water woes.

So if you are interested in working for the cause of sustainable water management, the field of water science and management could be your calling.

How it works

Water science studies the molecules and properties of water to understand how it behaves. It seeks to answer questions such as ‘How does water climb up a tube?” and ‘Why does water take so long to heat?’ and with the world facing an imminent water crisis, the area of water science and conservation have come together in the field of water science and management. The main objective of this field is contributing to sustainable water management as well as exploring possibilities of making good water affordable and accessible.

Scope

After studying water science and management, you can obtain positions in a range of water-related jobs. You can find work opportunities at both policy as well as practice level in various agencies and bodies, both at Central and State levels. Water policy and management is one of the emerging areas in this field. You can work in government departments, non-governmental organisations and international agencies, or do further research. Some of the government departments working in this sector are Central Water Commission, central Soil and Material Research Station, Central Ground Water Board and the Flood Control Commissions.

Conservation is another area of interest. It looks at protecting and restoring damaged wetlands or freshwater sources. You can work with environment conservation agencies and think-tanks working to find solutions for water shortage.

Over the last few years, several start-ups have com up to stem the water-crisis in India. They are leveraging technology to help government, farmers and individuals save water.

What to study?

Depending on your interest, you can pick from a pool of diverse courses to study.

Where:

India:

  • Shiv Nadar University, Uttar Pradesh: M.Sc in Water Science and Policy
  • The Energy and Resources Institute, Delhi: M.Sc Water Science and Governance and M.Tech Water Resource Engineering and Management
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai: M.A./M.Sc in Water Policy and Governance
  • Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru: It has a centre for research in Water Science and Technology, offering M.Sc (Engg), Ph.D.

Abroad:

  • University of Oxford, the U.K.: Master of Philosophy in Water Science, Policy and Management
  • University of Southampton: M.Sc Water Resources Management
  • Van Hall Larenstein University, the Netherlands: B.Sc in Land and Water Management.

Opportunities:

  • Hydrology
  • Water engineering
  • Water activism and advocacy

Required skills:

  • Interest in water conservation
  • Knowledge of water science
  • Awareness of the water problems facing the world
  • Research skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Observation and monitoring skills
  • Ability to come up with solutions

 

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What is the career in Mechatronics?

Watch any futuristic film and it is sure to be packed with self driving cars, drones and robots that can cater to your every need. Barring the robots taking over the world bit, what is shown in these movies is not as far fetched as you might think. Whether it is a robotic arm that can perform complex surgeries or rovers used for space exploration, slowly but steadily, robots are entering our lives. Wonder who builds them? Meet the mechatronics engineers. It’s their job to build robots that are used in different industries from agriculture and health care to automobiles and space exploration. So if you are interested in working with the latest technologies, mechatronics could be your calling.

What is mechatronics?

Mechatronics is a fusion of mechanical and electrical engineering with computer science. The term Mechatronics was first coined by the Japanese in relation to the development of the world’s first industrial robots. Mechatronics gives you a chance to work on the most up-to-date technologies, including artificial intelligence and modern product design. It prepares you for jobs in manufacturing and engineering sectors.

Required skills

  • Stay updated about the latest in technology
  • Expertise in robotics
  • Innovative thinking
  • Problem solving skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Research skills

Scope

Depending on your interest, you can work in Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration, automation, medical mechatronics, robotics and control systems. Medical mechatronics is a huge demand in radiology, surgery, ophthalmology and other branches of medicine. Similarly, AI is a central too many large technology companies such as Facebook and Google. Additionally, it is used in fields such as banking, aviation and manufacturing. You can work as project engineers / consultants in any of these sectors.

What to study?

Mechatronics is a relatively new branch of engineering. Many reputed engineering institutes in the country have begun offering Bachelor of Technology B.Tech and Master of Technology M.Tech degrees in Mechatronics engineering. Compared to Indian institutes, colleges abroad offer more courses in Mechatronics.

Where:

India:

  • Manipal University Karnataka: B.Tech in Mechatronics Engineering
  • Vellore Institute of Technology Tamil Nadu: M.Tech in Mechatronics
  • SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai: B.Tech in Mechatronics
  • DY Patil University Pune: B.Tech in Mechatronics

Abroad:

  • Stanford University the U.S: Masters in Mechatronics
  • Liverpool University the U.K: Masters in Engineering (Robotic Systems and Mechatronics)

 

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What is the career in music therapy?

Whether it is the well-known concerts of Bach and Beethoven o the peppy tunes of a pop song, music can help us forget our woes. Music possesses the uncanny ability to bring people together, and device into our deepest thoughts, feelings and traumas. According to beloved children’s author Hans Christian Andersen, “Where words fail, music speaks.” Music therapists draw upon this healing power of music to support people with disabilities and illnesses. Music therapy, for example, might help a child with autism communicate with others. For a person with dementia, music can be a way for children. So if you want to use your musical abilities to help people, you can hit the right note as a music therapist.

How it works:

Music therapy is an emerging field backed by mounting scientific evidence. Music therapists work alongside paediatricians and nurses and other allied health professionals, including speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists and social workers.

Scope

Depending on your interest, you can work as a music therapist in different sectors. Primarily, music therapists work as consultants with hospitals and rehabilitation centres. Music therapy is used for children with physical, developmental and intellectual disabilities. Their treatment does not involve medication, instead it focuses on bringing about cognitive and behavioural changes. Similarly, schools for differently abled children may also consult music therapists to help children cope with school work. Many corporate houses ask music therapists to conduct workshops to relieve anxiety and stress of employees.

What to study:

To work as a music therapist, a Bachelor’s degree in music or psychology, special education, occupational therapy, social work or nursing is a prerequisite.

Where:

  • St Mira’s College, Pune: One-year, full-time, and two-year, part-time, Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Music Therapy
  • Chennai School of Music Therapy: An online, foundation course to train aspirants in the basics of music therapy. Individuals with a Bachelor’s in Music or related fields can opt for the Postgraduate Diploma programme in Music Therapy
  • Nada, Centre for Music Therapy, Chennai and Delhi: Certificate course in Music Therapy – a distance-learning course offered in affiliation with the Directorate of Distance Learning
  • Mumbai Educational Trust’s Institute of Alternative Careers, Mumbai: Certificate in Music Therapy – a six-month, part-time course.
  • S.H. Centre for Music Therapy and Mental Health Amritsar: A distance-education course in Music Therapy. The centre is affiliated to Bharat Sevak Samaj, an agency promoted by the Government of India.

Required skills:

  • A desire to help people empower themselves
  • Empathy, patience and ability to listen
  • A love for music
  • Communication skills
  • Imagination and creativity
  • Openness to new ideas

 

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What is the career in Pharmacognosy?

Whether it is finding wonder plants that may help fight memory loss or taking skin care back to its natural source, the field of Pharmacognosy is constantly on the look out for natural ways of healing. A branch of botany, it is a study of medicines derived from plants.

Ancient civilizations provide records of treatment of certain diseases using natural ingredients extracted from minerals, bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. Over the years, new miracle drugs came to be produced in laboratories. But scientists are now recognizing that indigenous knowledge about the medicinal virtue of many plants offers great insight into the development of new drugs.

Today, Pharmacognosy forms an important part of pharmaceutical research and development. So if you want to use your fascination with nature to help people, you can become a pharmacognosist.

How it works:

Pharmacognosy focuses on how natural elements from plants and animals can be used to improve human lives and enhance one’s understanding of the world. It has applications in the areas of nutrition, medicine, agriculture and technology. Pharmacognosists identify natural drug sources, plan for cultivation of medicinal plants and evaluate the pharmacology of the extracts.

Scope:

Pharmacognosy opens up diverse job and research opportunities. In the public sector, government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration hire pharmacognosists . They can also work in the private sector as researchers and developers in the pharmaceutical, biomedical and biotechnology companies. The field of alternative medicine is also open to pharmacognosists. The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) has been set up to propagate natural systems of medicine and health care.

What to study?

To enter the field of Pharmacognosy, you need a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) with Botany and Chemistry or a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm). A diploma course in Pharmacy before taking admission in B.Pharma is another option. You can seek further specialisation in Pharmacognosy at the postgraduate level with a Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm). If you are interested in alternative medicine, you can pursue a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) in Dravyaguna. This is a two-year full-time course in medicine involving the study of the substances in Ayurveda.

Where to study?

  • M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru: M.Pharm in Pharmacognosy
  • Poona College of Pharmacy: M.Pharm in Pharmacognosy
  • The Maharaja Sayajirao University, Vadodara: M.Pharma . in Pharmacognosy Herbal Drugs
  • Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research Institute: M.Pharm in Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry
  • Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai: M.Pharm in Medicinal Natural Product

Required skills:

  • A love for the natural world
  • Keen interest in medicine
  • Observational and analytical skills
  • Orientation towards research
  • Training in Chemistry
  • Patience and willingness to work hard

 

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What is the career in Mycology?

Most people shudder at the mere mention of fungi. ‘Yuck!’ and ‘eww’ are some of the expressions that these growths usually evoke. Fungi rot our food and furniture, kill our plants and even sometimes grow on us. However, without fungi, the terrestrial ecosystems of planet Earth would not work. Fungi play a big role in the green world because they help break things down. Some types of fungi such as mushrooms even make for delicious food. In fact, they are so important that there is an entire branch of science dedicated to their study. It is called mycology. Mycologists or fungal scientists study fungi including mushrooms, moulds, truffles, yeasts and lichens, found in plants, animals and humans. So far, about 70,000 species of fungi have been discovered, but it is estimated that there are at least 1.5 million species not yet been found! So, if you interested in plant science, the field of mycology can opens doors to a wide of exciting and rewarding careers.

How it works

Mycologists may study mushrooms exclusively or other forms of fungi that can cause problems for humans, plants and animals. Mycologists are also able to determine which fungi are poisonous. Because of this skill set they can offer their assistance to forensic departments as well as the food industry.

Scope

Mycologists can find work in many areas. The importance of fungi in crop growth, plant disease and fermentation means there are jobs available and the food industry. The unique properties of fungi offer many other industrial applications such as detoxifying polluted land while knowledge of medicinal mycology is useful in the pharmaceutical sector. Often mycology also helps police is solving crimes by working with the forensics team. Mycologists are also hired by botanical gardens.

Required skills:

  • Interest in fungi
  • Analytical, problem-solving and mathematical skills
  • Ability to interpret complex scientific data

Branches:

  • Medical Mycology: Finding and studying fungi that causes diseases in humans.
  • Taxonomy: Naming, describing and classifying new and unknown fungi.
  • Food Mycology: Examining fungi that cause food to go bad.
  • Plant Pathology: Studying and controlling fungal diseases in plants.
  • Industrial Mycology: Looking at the ways in which fungi can help in fermentation.

What to study:

There are no undergraduate courses in mycology, so most mycologists begin by earning a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Biology, Botany or Microbiology.

Where:

India:

  • Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore: Mycology is taught in the third semester as part of B.Sc Microbiology.
  • Shri Guru Gobind Singh University, Delhi-NCR: Mycology, Phycology and Virology are part of the first year syllabus for B.Sc Microbiology.
  • Allahabad State UNIVERSITY, Uttar Pradesh: M.Sc Mycology and Plant Pathology.
  • Birsa Agricultural University, Jharkhand: M.Sc Mycology and Plant Pathology.
  • University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai: B.Sc Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology.

Abroad:

  • School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, the U.K.: B.Sc in Biological Sciences (Mycology)
  • University of California, Berkeley, the U.S.: Postgraduate courses in Forest Pathology and Mycology.
  • Imperial College, London, the U.K.: Research opportunities in different fields of Mycology.

 

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I want to be a loco pilot in the Indian Railways

I have done my HSC in Science and I want to be a loco pilot in the Indian Railways. What are the requirements to become a loco pilot in the Indian Railways? When does the notification come and what is the procedure to join them?

The basic qualification to become an Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) in the Indian Railways is a three year diploma course in Electrical/Electronics/Mechanical/Automobile Engineering from a recognized Board or Institution like IIT. Eligibility for these courses is tenth grade. Selection is through a written test followed by an interview.

The examination is conduction by the respective Railway Recruitment Board (RRB). There are 21 RRB zones in the Indian Railways. Recently, the Indian Railways released the RRB Assistant Loco Pilot Recruitment Notification 2017 to fill approximately 23,801 vacancies.

Loco pilots assist in driving or piloting the train. The job requires continues attention and a high degree of responsiveness. Initially, candidates are appointed as Assistant Local Pilots with goods trains. After getting some experience, they are appointed to passenger trains, later to express trains, superfast trains and the Rajdhani express trains.

 

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Is literature or functional English better?

I have just finished my Std. XII board exams. I would like to pursue B.A. degree in English. Is literature or functional English better?

A course in English literature is designed for academic study of English as well as language skills at the workplace. It trains students to pursue higher studies in English literature and language.

The main focus of Functional English is on how English is used in real-life situations. Its curriculum is designed for perfection in reading, writing, listening and speaking. The emphasis is on building vocabulary and enhancing reading abilities. The course includes intensive drilling in listening and producing English sounds, English stress pattern, intonation.

Both courses are offered at the undergraduate level. The duration of the course is three years. Go for B.A. in Literature if you want to go for higher studies in English.

 

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I don’t like physics at all! But I like biotechnology

I am in Std. XII (PVB). I want to do my B.Sc. But I don’t like physics at all! But I like biotechnology. Which subjects should I take in B.Sc. for a better future? Is there any scope for biotechnology in Agra? Please give me the names of some good changes in Agra as well.

Biotechnology requires a firm background in science. After completing 10+2, you may go for B.Sc./B.Tech. in Biotechnology/5-year Integrated oriented, you need to go for higher studies. Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, conducts a Combined Biotech Entrance Examination (CEEB) for admission to M.Sc. in Biotechnology for 32 institutes.

Some other institutes are Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Information and Biotechnology, Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune; Christ University, Bangalore; IIT (Department of Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology), Delhi; Anna University, Centre for Biotechnology, Chennai; Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, Kolkata. Agra does not have any good institute for Biotechnology. Also my suggestion for you is to join a course in the best of institutes and son compromise with the limitation of locality.

 

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I am confused between the two

I am in Std. XII (Humanities) with an interest in history. What are the possible career options in the field of history? I am also interested in advertising and am confused between the two. Please help.

History graduates work in a wide variety of areas, e.g., business, law, politics, social service, and education. These areas may not be directly related to history, but students of history develop valuable skills in research, analysis, and oral and written communication and use this training to work in an environment suitable and use this training to work in an environment suitable for their personalities and interests.

Knowledge of history is also an asset in journalism. Newspapers and journals often give assignments to historians for the preparation of background material to enlighten the public on the historical importance of an event. History is very popular choice for various competitive examinations at state and central level like the civil services.

Advertising is a glamorous, fast-paced, high profile but serious business. An advertising agency utilizes professionals with a wide variety of talents and skills to develop memorable advertisements that promote sales for the client company. It can be a satisfying career for those who enjoy variety, excitement, creative challenges, and competition.

Though advertising offers opportunities to meet high profile people, to see their work in print, and has many perks, it is hard work and the pace is frantic. The deadlines are firm and the field is very stressful. Within the limited time, you need to show creativity and results. It’s a tightrope-walk on an everyday basis.

For a career in advertising, you need to imaginative business-oriented and be able to communicate persuasively, both orally and in writing along with an outgoing personality. On the other hand, history-related careers require proficiency in reading comprehension, writing and speaking, ability to analyse historical data and correct research.

 

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I was forced into architecture due to family pressure

I’m currently doing a diploma in interior designing. It’s my second year. However, my interest lies in business. I was forced into architecture due to family pressure and now I’m not able to do well in this stream. Is there any way by which I can opt to do business apart from dropping 2 years? Please help me with this situation.

What type of business do you want to enter? It is always better if you have some professional qualification in related field. Since you’ve already joined a course in interior design, spend one more year and complete the course. After completing it and gaining some experience, you may start your own consultancy. On the contrary, if you do not enjoy design, then you will not be able to flourish in a related business. Think about it; you’re the only one who can decide.

 

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What is the career in Animal Law?

Is law applicable only to humans? What about protecting the rights of our furry friends? That’s where animal law comes in. A relatively new and exciting field, it is a perfect career path for animal lovers. Animal law involves fighting against cruelty towards animals, and promoting animal welfare, rights as well as policy development and research.

How it works

Animal law covers any issue involving “non-human animals”. India has some of the finest animal protection laws such as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. This law makes organizing or inciting animal fights; feeding poisonous food to stray animals; and maiming or injuring them, a criminal offence.

Scope

Non-profit organisations such as People for Ethical Treatment of Animals and World Wildlife Fund working for animal rights, employ animal lawyers. Environmental law also offers considerable scope for animal law practitioners to protect environmental and animal interests through conservation and protection of the habitat.

What to study

Unfortunately, there are not many animal law courses available in India. last year, the University of Hyderabad tied up with Barcelona University to start India’s first animal law centre. It offers a one-year distance education programme in Animal Protection law.

India:

  • National Academy of Legal Studies and Research, University of Hyderabad: One-year postgraduate diploma in Animal Protection law, with a few contact classes in the summer. What makes this course unique is that it is also open to students without a law background but with an interest in animal law.

Abroad:

  • Harvard Law School, the U.S.: Courses in Animal Law are available to Master of Law (LLM) students. The institute also offers an Animal Law Policy Programme, which analyses the treatment of animals by the legal system.
  • Standford University and University of California, Berkeley, the U.S.: Both the universities have courses in Animal Law taught by a well-known animal lawyer Bruce Wagman.

Opportunities:

  • Litigation
  • Advocacy
  • Animal charities and fundraisers
  • Environmental law
  • Policy and research

Required skills:

  • Legal drafting and research skills
  • Creative thinking
  • Communication skills
  • Interest in animal welfare
  • Argumentative skills

 

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How to become an air quality specialist?

We often come across news articles describing the air quality in certain parts of the world as either ‘good’ or ‘bad’. The quality of air refers to the amount of pollutants present in the atmosphere. And it is the job of the air quality specialists to monitor air pollution and report it. Air quality specialists work for government and private agencies. They analyse the air we breathe to check if the air is safe and free of pollutants. Vigorous monitoring helps in altering people and initiating actions in case of extreme pollution. So if you want to help build sustainable, livable cities and contribute towards a low-carbon economy, then air quality assessment could be the right career option for you.

How it works

Air quality specialists test air samples from various environments and determine whether it meets the set standards. Monitoring air quality is also significant as policy makers can frame policies to curb air pollution and for the environment experts to understand the impact of policy changes. Real-time monitoring plays a key role in calculating air quality index (AQI) to issue health advisories as well as from action plans to meet standards.

Required skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Good communication skills to simplify technical documents
  • Awareness of occupational safety and health issues
  • Interest in preserving the environment

Scope

In India, air quality specialists work with the Central Pollution Control Board, State pollution control boards, pollution control committees, and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute in cities. Air quality specialists are also needed by non-government agencies and action groups working to reduce air pollution.

What to study?

If you are interested in pursuing a career as an air quality specialist, a degree in environmental engineering – Bachelors of Technology (B.Tech) is a must. A Bachelors (B.Sc) and a Masters (M.Sc) in Environmental Science will also be helpful.

Where:

  • Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur. B.Tech in Environmental Engineering.
  • Ch BP Government Engineering College, New Delhi: B.Tech in Environmental Engineering.
  • Banaras Hindu University: M.Sc in Environmental Science (Environmental Technology)
  • Garware Institute of Development University of Mumbai: M.Sc in Sustainable Development and Environment Management.
  • Savitribai Phule University, Pune: M.Sc in Environmental Sciences.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi: M.Sc in Environmental Sciences.

 

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Who is the Celluloid Man?

Paramesh Krishnan Nair, known popularly as P.K. Nair, was an Indian film scholar and archivist. Nair was the founder-director of the NFAI who dedicated his life to archiving films for posterity. He started his journey with the NFAI in 1965 as an assistant curator. He travelled all across India to collect film reels, and created a vibrant collection over the many decades he worked with the NFAI.

Some of his important finds are reels from Dadasaheb Phalke’s Kalia Mardan, and Ardeshir Irani’s Alam Ara, the first Indian talking film.

Nair became the first director of the NFAI in 1982 and developed the framework for its functioning.

Though he got some practical training in branches of film making from film makers of Bombay, particularly Mehboob Khan, Bimal Roy and Hrishikesh Mukherjee, he realised that he did not have the ideal qualities to become a filmmaker himself. His interest lay more in the field of academics.

As advised by Jean Bhownagary of Films Division of India, he appeared for an interview at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), was selected and joined the institute in March 1961 in the position of research assistant. While at FTII, he assisted Marie Seton and Professor Satish Bahadur in initiating and conducting the film appreciation classes of FTII. He also conducted early work to establish the film archive set up as a separate wing of FTII. He corresponded with the curators and directors of established film archives in the UK, USA, France, Italy, Poland, Soviet Union and other countries. All of them advised an independent autonomous entity for NFAI and not as a wing of FTII.

Destructive fire and current state of preservation

A huge fire which broke out on January 8, 2003 in the Film and Television Institute of India caused massive destruction in a vault of the NFAI housed on the campus. Nearly, 1,700 nitrate film base prints perished, and 607 films in 5,097 reels were lost in the fire. Among the greatest losses for the Archive were the reels of Dadasaheb Phalke’s films Raja Harishchandra (1913), Lanka Dahan (1917), and Kaliya Mardan (1919).

In March 2019, a report submitted by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India stated that nearly 31,000 reels at the NFAI were reported lost or destroyed.

Recently, the Jayakar Bungalow on the NFAI campus was inaugurated by Prakash Javadekar, Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The bungalow will house a digital film library where researchers can access the NFAI’s database.

 

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What is The National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM)?

To preserve, conserve, digitize and restore films and ancillary material, the NFHM was setup by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. As of June 2019, the NFHM has completed assessment of the condition of nearly 1.32 lakh film reels and conservation work of the same is underway. These reels will soon be digitized.

The objectives of NFHM include assessing  the film conditions and to ascertain the left over life of films, preventive conservation of 1,32,000 film reels, 2k/4k picture and sound restoration of 1086 landmark feature films and 1152 short films; recording of new picture and sound inter-negatives of each film, digitization of 1160 feature film and 1660 short films, construction of Archival and Preservation facilities with global standards, Training and Capacity building programmes in the field of preservation facilities with global standards, training and capacity building programmes in the field of preservation and film archiving in co-ordination with international agencies. 

The Mission also aims at IT solution for effective implementation of NFHM by creation of comprehensive Web-based end to end IT management solution that will keep track of all aspects of the functioning of the mission.

 

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What are the different sections of the NFAI?

Preservation of films

The NFAI has 19 film preservation facilities /vaults as per international standards and specifications. The 19 vaults together can store close to two lakhs film reels.

Initially, the film collection was stored on the premises of the Film and Television Institute of India, but was later moved to the NFAI’s new building, which is also Pune, in 1994.

Research and documentation

This section of the NFAI is in charge of tracing, collecting and preserving the heritage of Indian cinema. It contains nearly 1,50,000 still photographs relating to almost every period of Indian cinema. It also contains over 24,000 film posters in various sizes, 14,000 song booklets, 1,00,000 press clippings and old disc records.

The Library

The NFAI library has over 29,000 books on cinema from around the world. It has close to 100 periodicals on cinema published in various languages and nearly 31,000 film scripts received from the Central Board of Film Certification, India.

Most of the old books, periodicals and scripts are digitized. The library is open to the public for research purposes.

 

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What are the workings of the National Film Archive of India?

For long, films have been a medium of enter. There are so many films made every year that people are left with endless options. Apart from entertaining people, films form an important part of a country’s heritage, throwing light on its culture and progress. To preserve this rich heritage, the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) was set up in 1964 as a media unit of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.

About the NFAI

The NFAI was created with the objective of preserving films as art and historical documents.

A member of the International Federation of Film Archives, the NFAI’s three principal objectives are – to trace, acquire and preserve for posterity the heritage of Indian cinema; to classify, document data and undertake research relating to films; and to act as a centre for the dissemination of film culture.

The NFAI has a stock of film reels, video cassettes, DVDs, books, posters, stills, clippings and audio CDs of Indian cinema since the 1910s. With its headquarters in Pune, Maharashtra, it has regional offices in Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Thiruvananthapuram.

The NFAI has several facilities and sections. It has a huge library and organises film screenings periodically for the people at its various centres. In association with the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune, it also conducts courses on film appreciation.

 

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I want to do my UG degree in U.S.A.

I am studying in Std IX. I want to do my UG degree in U.S.A. What exams should I do for this and from when should I start coaching for it?

For an UG course in USA, you’re required to takes SAT I (Scholastic Assessment Test) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). In addition to these, some universities also have ACT (American College Testing) and SAT II Subject Tests. Every university has its own minimum requirements and scores with respect to standardized tests.

 SAT-I is a three-hour reasoning test, primarily multiple-choice test that measures verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities that develop over time. Mastering vocabulary is a really easy way to increase your SAT score, you should pay particular attention to developing language and writing abilities. Maths questions are of Std X level, but application-oriented. So get your concepts clear now.

SAT-II consists of subject tests. These one-hour tests measure your knowledge of particular subjects and your ability to apply the knowledge. You may take the coaching while studying in Std XI.

 

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I am keen on architectural engineering as a career

I am in Std X. I am keen on architectural engineering as a career but I’m not sure how to go about it. What degrees are required and is it a bright career option?

Architects design buildings and other structures. In addition to considering the way these buildings and structures look, they also make sure they are functional, safe, economical and suit the needs of the people who use them.

To become an architect, one should have at least a Bachelor’s in Architecture (B.Arch.). Eligibility for this course is 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. The Council of Architecture conducts an aptitude test, NATA (National Aptitude Test), on an all-India basis for admission to colleges of architecture. This test is held to judge the applicant’s visual and spatial perception, creative ability, imagination, aesthetic sensitivity, etc. in addition to NATA, some colleges conduct their own written exam for admission. After finishing the course an architect must register with the Council of Architecture to practice as an independent architect.

Opportunities in this field are highly dependent on the level of local construction. Big cities are developing very fast, and constructions of commercial as well as residential buildings are going on. Even renovation of old buildings is on the rise. This trend is especially good for architects as it provides many job opportunities.

 

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I would love to specialize in gynaecology

I’m 16 years old and confused about what I should take up after Std XII. I would love to specialize in gynaecology. What are the requirements/qualifications to become a gynaecologist? Is it possible to write an entrance exam without going for coaching? F so, how can I prepare by myself for the exam?

OB/GYN specialists are doctors who focus solely on women. This field is particularly appealing because it allows you to maintain an interest in both medicine and surgery. You can develop expertise in the most sophisticated, technically demanding procedures if you choose.

You need many years of education to become an OB/GYN specialist. First, clear 10+2 examination with Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Then appear in a competitive exam to get admission into M.B.B.S. (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). This is a five and a half-year course which includes a one-year internship period as well. After that you can go for M.D. in Gynaecology.

It is certainly not necessary to go for coaching classes. These just guide you, but it is you who have to work hard. First get your concepts clear, understand all the topics of XI and XII NCERT. Do the last five years entrance test papers to get a full insight into the pattern of the papers. Normally, in these exams, the emphasis is on conceptual questions. So, you should practice for questions based on diagrams given in NCERT text and concepts. Be confident and prepare well. Wish you all the best.

 

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I am interested in space science, astronomy and planetary studies

I am in Std VIII. I am interested in space science, astronomy and planetary studies. How can I align my education towards a career in this field?

A career in space sciences is full of glamour and adventure. But in order to establish yourself in the space industry, be prepared to continue studying throughout your work-life.

To enter this field, there are two routes, both of which require 10+2 with PCM. After 10+2
you can go for a four-year B.Tech. in Aerospace Engineering/Avionics/Physical Sciences at the Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (under Department of Space, Govt. of India) at Thiruvananthapuram. After completion of the course, students are absorbed into Indian Space Research Organisation.

Alternatively, you can go for graduation in Physics followed by M.Sc. in Physics/Astrophysics. Some institutes like the IISER, NISER, Bhubaneswar, National Institute of Technology, Surat, a few IITs offer integrated M.Sc. directly after 10+2.

 

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I am interested in Forensic Science and intend to make my career in the field of forensics

I am an F.Y.B.Sc. (Chemistry) student. I am interested in Forensic Science and intend to make my career in the field of forensics. What course would I have to do?

A forensic scientist investigates crimes. S/he gathers and documents, or analyzes, physical evidence from crime scenes. This evidence may include fingerprints, blood, hair and bullets. An inquisitive nature and a concern for accuracy is the main attribute required to be in this field.

To become a forensic scientist, you need to do M.Sc. (Forensic Science), for which eligibility in Bachelor’s in Forensic/Physical/Biological Sciences. To become a forensic pathologist, one has to complete an M.D. in Forensic Medicine after successfully completing his/her MBBS. These pathologists conduct post-mortems on dead bodies to find out the cause of death.

 

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My ambition is to become an astronaut

I am in Std X (Karnataka Boards). My ambition is to become an astronaut. What combinations must I choose in PU?

Astronauts go out into space to conduct experiments and research on various different projects. To become one, you need to have a high level of fitness and the right attitude to spend long periods of time in space. Scientific and technical competence is essential. Take Science and Mathematics in 10+2 then appear in ISAT, conducted by Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram for B.Tech. Aerospace Engineering/Avionics. All engineering graduates from the IIST are absorbed in the ISRO.

A career as an astronaut is not always as thrilling as it seems. One has to dedicate a lot of hours to training and practice before being allowed to go into space. Moreover getting into training programmes is very difficult because of the high level of competition and the relatively low number of astronauts required globally.

In India, astronaut training is yet to begin. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of USA select people from all over to participate in their astronaut programme.

 

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I’m a student studying in Std XII. Is it possible for a student who has taken bio-science to go for aviation?

Aviation refers to all activities involving the operation of aircrafts. It mainly deals with the flying operations (pilots), air crew (air hostesses), air traffic management, cargo marketing and management.

For technical jobs like pilot and air traffic management you need to have physics and maths in 10+2, but for air crew you can have 10+2 and preferably graduation in any stream. But in all these fields, a high level of concentration and focus is needed as there is a lot of minute observation and immediate response required.

 

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I want to study filmmaking

I’m a B.Com. student and I want to study filmmaking as I want to work in the film industry. Which colleges can I choose from and how secure is this line of career?

To get into filmmaking, you not only need a passion for filmmaking but also skills like leadership qualities, ability to bring out talent in others, creative instincts as well as managerial and administrative abilities. Good training helps to hone these skills. There are diploma, post diploma and even certificate courses available throughout India. A good course introduces aspiring candidates to the craft of filmmaking. Some institutes include: Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune; Whistling Woods International, Mumbai; Zee Institute of Media Arts (ZIMA), Mumbai; Asian Academy of Film and TV.

Duration, admission criterion and eligibility of a course depend on the course one opts for and the institution chose. For example, FTII offers a 3-year PG diploma in direction for which eligibility is a bachelor’s degree.

 

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I am really interested in computers and programming

I am a Std X. I am really interested in computers and programming. I want to know more about career options in this field. What’s the difference between a BCA and B.Tech, computer science? Which are the colleges or universities for this line?

Although BCA and B.Tech. are graduate programmes, both are entirely different streams of study. Bachelor of Computer Application is concerned with software designing, data base management and operational functions with the help of multifaceted data within a computer. However, B.Tech. is a professional degree course which incorporates technical subjects along with computer applications. The duration of the BCA course is three years whereas the duration of the B.Tech. course is four years.

B.Tech. has reasonably good employment opportunities. But after having a BCA, aspirants can only expect entry-level jobs in the IT sector. Most of them pursue the 2 years MCA program after their BCA. So it takes total 5 years while B.Tech. takes only 4 years.

All good institutes like IITs and NITs offer B.Tech. in Computer Science. BCA is also offered by many universities and institutes all over India.

 

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I want to pursue a career in the hotel industry as a chef

I have completed Std XII and now I want to pursue a career in the hotel industry as a chef. Please guide me as to how to go ahead with this.

For professional training to get into this field, one should go for a course in hotel management and opt for the specialization in Food & Beverage. A number of reputed institutes in the country run these courses.

The National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology, New Delhi, conducts a joint entrance test (NCHM JEE) for admission to the 3-year B.Sc. programme in Hospitality and Hotel Administration for its 52 affiliated Institutes of Hotel Management, all over India. Students who have completed 10+2 in any stream including vocational, are eligible to apply. The exam is of 3 hours duration and contains a total of 200 questions on Numerical Ability & Scientific Aptitude, Reasoning & Logical Deduction, General Knowledge & Current Affairs and English language.

Private institutes such as the Welcomegroup Graduate School of Hotel administration, Manipal, Oberoi School of Hotel Management, New Delhi and Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad, hold separate entrance exams, followed by an interview.

 

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I am interested in the study and research of supernatural phenomenon (parapsychology) and also in demonology

I am a Std X student interested in the study and research of supernatural phenomenon (parapsychology) and also in demonology. I want to take this up as a career, but my problem is that as a discipline, demonology incorporates the study of philosophy, theology, psychology (both normal and abnormal) anthropology, chemistry, physics and metaphysics. Will PCB or PCM or Arts (psychology or any other subject) prove to be a better option? Please give me some information and steps to be taken for preparation for these subjects.

Parapsychology is the scientific study of supernatural phenomena such as extra-sensory perception (ESP), psychokinesis (the ability to influence an object physically without any contact), telepathy (the knowledge of human thoughts without sensory communication), precognition (the knowledge of future events) and clairvoyance (the knowledge of physical objects without sensory aid) that are unexplainable by accepted principles of science.

It is a research field in which its practitioners devote their time to learning about their phenomena through scientific investigations. There are very few accredited parapsychology courses worldwide. You can find a new online, but these are not accredited by any recognized educational establishments.

Scientific parapsychology is a minuscule field, with only a few dozen people in the entire world working in it. At present, the chances of landing a decent job are very small indeed. If you are so dedicated that this doesn’t stop you, wonderful! But please be realistic.

Demonology is the study of demons or beliefs about demons. It is the branch of theology relating to supernatural beings who are not gods. Often categorized as a pseudo science, there is no institute offering a valid degree course in this field. It does not have any career; people study it as a hobby.

 

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I want to pursue a career in the nutrition field

I’m in Std XI with PCMB. I want to pursue a career in the nutrition field e.g., to become a clinical dietician. What other options do I have to be a dietician? What is the scope of this field in India and the pay package? Also the available colleges in Maharashtra for this field and how should I go about the studies?

The basic educational requirement for dieticians is a B.Sc. in Home Science or Home economics followed by a diploma in Dietetics or M.Sc. (Home Science) with specialization in Food & Nutrition. Some good colleges are S.N.D.T College of Home Science, Pune; Lady Irwin College, Delhi University; Institute of Home economics, New Delhi.

Dieticians and nutritionists are in demand in hospitals, nursing homes and government health department, hotels, cruise lines, etc. Several sports organizations, companies and factories hire these professionals to design a healthy menu for their cafeterias. Spas and clinics hire dieticians to design healthy, low-calorie monthly food charts for their customers. A fresher may draw anywhere between Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 in a standard hospital or nursing home of repute. When combined with a degree in hotel management, the salary levels could be between Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000.

 

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I want to become a Creative Director in Fashion or a fashion stylist/editor

I am 15 years old and want to become a Creative Director in Fashion or a fashion stylist/editor. Which stream should I opt for in Class XI? If Humanities, then what subjects are preferable? Kindly guide me also about undergraduate programmes. 

Creative directors in the fashion industry may be known as an art director for a high-fashion magazine; or a creative director of a fashion design company overseeing the design of apparel. No matter the formal in which they work, creative directors in the fashion industry use their skills of creativity in exercising concepts, communication, leadership and industry-related technology. They are expected to keep up with fashion trends and developments to produce trendy outfits for your department store or magazine. In short, a Creative Director’s job is to reinforce or recreate the brand aesthetic.

It is not an area where you can become a creative director just after doing a particular course. First you have to work as a copywriter, designer, art director or do a similar creative job, and show an aptitude not only for the creative side, but for the business side of advertising and marketing. On an average, you would need about 5-8 years of experience in a senior or management position. To become a copywriter you need a degree in Mass Communication. To become a designer, go for a Bachelor’s in Fashion Designing. For both these courses, eligibility is 10+2 with any stream.

 

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I want to be a basketball player

I’m currently doing my B.A. Since my school days I was very interested in basketball and I represented my school in inter school tournaments and played for different local clubs. I believe I have talent and determination but due to the lack of infrastructure and facilities in my town I’m thinking to go back to my home state Jharkhand after my BA studies and start my career in basketball and play for my state. I searched online for basketball clubs, Sports Authority of India in Jharkhand but I couldn’t find anything. I want to be a basketball player but I don’t know how to start my basketball career in Jharkhand. Please help.

There are various institutes and academies under the Sports Authority of India (SAI) that impact training to young talents to transfom them into talented sportspersons. Other than SAI, there are many state level and private organizations that support sports enthusiasts. Basketball Federation of India (BFI) is the governing and controlling body of basketball in India, and is responsible for the development and promotion of this sport at all levels.

Remember, breaking into the sports profession is not an easy task. Just because you’re good, doesn’t give you a free pass to a professional career. The fact of the matter is that in order to get there, you need to put in plenty of hard work, more than you may anticipate. Also, most sportspeople compete as amateurs (unpaid) until they reach a sufficiently high standard to be offered payment for their performance. Professional sportspeople are usually paid on individual contracts.

 

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I want to be a chef and then start my own business

I am a Std XII Arts student. I want to be a chef and then start my own business. I mostly want to specialize in breads and cakes. What can I do o achieve my goal? Also if some courses can be suggested it would be of great help.

Due to an unprecedented growth in the culinary industry, there is an increase in the demand for professional chefs. But it requires years of work experience, dedication, hard work and discipline in order to get far in this competitive industry.

Before starting your business, you should have proper education which should include management and accounting courses also. If you want to be a hardcore baker, equip yourself with internships and apprenticeships by working with the best in your chosen field. Food trucks, cafes, bistros, taco stands, ice cream carts, chocolate shops, and pizzerias are all creative ways to market your food dreams.

A variety of diploma courses are available in this field. Some of these are: Diploma in Food & Beverage Service, Diploma in Bakery & Confectionery, Diploma in Kitchen Management. I suggest you go for a 4-year Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM) degree, for which qualification is 10+2 in any stream. While pursuing this course, you will also learn about the other related fields such as housekeeping and general management. Later you can specialize in Food & Beverage.

 

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I want to become an Actuary

I am a student of Class 11. I want to become an Actuary. But I don’t understand which subjects I should choose in Class 11. And I don’t know in which subject I should graduate.

Actuaries are individuals responsible for measuring risk for some unforeseen future event and assessing the cost of that risk in a variety of situations. The study of actuarial science requires high aptitude in Mathematics.

To become a full-fledged Actuary, one has to clear, through self-study, a series of examinations conducted by the Actuarial Society of India (ASI), Mumbai. Eligibility is 10+2 with at least 85% in Mathematics/Statistics or Graduation/Post-Graduation with Mathematical subjects like Mathematics, Statistics or computer science etc.

Some other institutes which offer courses in Actuarial science are: Amity School of Insurance and actuarial Science, New Delhi, College of Insurance, Insurance Institute of India, Mumbai, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. While Actuarial Science can be pursued at various universities, the ASI alone confers the Fellowship in India.

 

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My daughter is in Class X. She wants to be a psychiatrist. Which stream should she take in Class XI?

Psychiatry, a branch of the medical profession, is focused on the study and treatment of mental illness, emotional and behavioural disorders. To get admission in Psychiatry, students should go for 5 ½ years MBBS programme for which eligibility is 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Admission in MBBS course will be done through NEET.

After completing MBBS, student can go for Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Diploma in Psychiatric Medicine (DPM) or a Diploma of National Board exam (DNB) this is equivalent to an MD degree. The Master course in Psychiatry takes 3 years to complete while the diploma course takes two years.

 

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I want to pursue my career in IAS

I am a student of Class 9 and I want to take Arts in Class 11 as I want to pursue my career in IAS, but my school doesn’t have Arts stream. I thought of leaving my school, but my school is one of the best schools in West Delhi. What is the solution to this?

Entry to Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is through the Civil Services Examination conducted by UPSC. The basic eligibility for appearing is graduation in any stream. So, do not worry about the subjects and institutes. Rather focus on subjects which you like and do your best.

This is truly an intense competitive examination and requires at least one year of dedicated preparation. The standard of questions is usually an inter-mix of both graduate and post-graduate level of study. Even now you can start preparing by reading at least two good magazines and two newspapers that deal with Indian and international affairs, political, economic and business issues, and other current events, thoroughly. Buy guide books on the IAS exams to practice and prepare.

The examination consists of three levels: Preliminary Examination (two papers of multiple-choice questions), Main Examination (nine papers of essay type questions) and Interview. Preliminary examination consists of two question papers. General studies (GS) test contains questions on the constitution of India, history, geography, economics, science, and current affairs. It is just a screening test to shortlist candidates for the further selection process.

Those who quality Prelims are required to re-register for IAS Mains, which assesses a candidate’s academic expertise in his specialized subject. Further, selected candidates will appear for the personal interview round.

The marks obtained in the Main Examination and Interview determines final ranking. The candidates are then allotted to various services on the basis of their ranks and the preferences expressed by them. Roughly 800-900 candidates make it through the final selection every year. The top ranking 100 or so candidates are inducted into the IAS.

 

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I’m a student of Std X and I want to know about Adventure Tourism. What is it like? Is there any scope for employment?

Adventure tourism is all about taking the roads less travelled. Not only does adventure travelling involve exploring remote areas and a great degree of physical activity but also some measure of controlled risk. Mountaineering expeditions, trekking, paragliding, bungee jumping, rafting, scuba diving and rock climbing are the best-known examples of adventure tourism.

One can choose to work outdoors as an instructor or a tour leader or be a part of a managerial team. The marketing or managerial aspect of this job requires an MBA degree or a diploma in tourism. But people who are involved in the operational aspect (customer interface and all the outdoor work) require professional training in that sport. For example, a water sport would require you to have a certain level of competence as a swimmer. For mountaineering, you should be able to handle the ropes, quite literally. A high level of physical fitness is a basic prerequisite.

Though the job is both physically demanding and risky at times, it will definitely be the most exciting job imaginable. To make a successful instructor, you need to have a passion for the outdoors, courage, the ability to stay calm in critical situations and leadership qualities.

Job positions are available with numerous small or medium adventure tourism companies, wildlife parks or holiday resorts and mountain lodges. You could also exercise your entrepreneurial abilities and start an adventure tours operating company. Get in if you have the passion. It’s a highly rewarding career. So be a part of it!

 

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I want to pursue Digital Marketing

I am a first year student from Jaipur. As an alternative career option I wanted to pursue Digital Marketing. I wanted to know it scope and the available courses and institutes. Also enlighten me about the online courses available and their authenticity.

Digital Marketing is a booming career option today, making a strong impact in the world of Marketing and Advertising. Especially, the start-ups prefer going digital to market their brand, products and services.

It is a vast field with a variety of areas and segments such as Social media, Content writing, Email Marketing, SEO/SEM, Data Analysis, Designing, and much more. These managers are responsible for bringing together the different components of digital marketing together and make it efficient.

Here are some of the best-known companies that currently offer digital marketing courses in India: Digital Vidya; NIIT Digital Marketing; Manipal Global Education Services; SimpliLearn.com, Bangalore; All India Management Association, New Delhi, EduPristine.

 

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It’s my dream and the aim of my life to join ISRO.

It’s my dream and the aim of my life to join ISRO; I am in Std XII and have opted for PCM + computer applications. I am an average student and got 84% in ICSC. What are the various career options in ISRO, the fields of engineering to get into ISRO and the requirements and colleges from which I can pursue these courses? Also what are the advantages of joining this stream?

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducts a written test every year for final year engineering students of streams like electronics, electrical, computer science or mechanical engineering. On the basis of this exam, the selected applicants are then called for an interview which decides the final selection of candidates for the post of Scientist/Engineer SC. The other option is to join Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram for B.Tech. (Aerospace Engineering/Avionics). Admission is through JEE. After completing the course all students are absorbed in ISRO.

 

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I aim to join the Indian Foreign Service in the future.

I’m a student of Std XI in the Humanities stream. I aim to join the Indian Foreign Service in the future. I’d like to know about the courses and colleges that I should go in for in order to pursue the same. I’m average in academics with an average percentage that ranges between 85 to 90%. My dream college continues to be St Stephen’s College, DU. But considering my percentage, I guess that is an option I shouldn’t be thinking of right now. In my understanding, an excellent college/university is mandatory to get into the field. Please guide.

Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers are recruited through the combines Civil Services Examination administrated by the Union Public Service Commission. This examination has three stages – a preliminary exam, a main exam, and an interview – and is known for being extremely challenging. The entire selection process lasts 15 to 20 months.

Entry into the IFS is considered very difficult; the most applicants rank it and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) as their top choices because of the high prestige, salary, and benefits that come with such positions. Eligibility is graduation (any stream) from any recognized college. So it is not about the college, rather about succeeding in this examination, which requires thorough preparation.

 

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I would love to pursue a higher course in Nano Science.

I’ve just completed my Std XII exams (TN Board). I would love to pursue a higher course in Nano Science as it has always been a field of my interest and fascination, but I’ve been told that the career opportunities in this field are very scant. What are the career opportunities after an integrated M.Tech in Nano Science?

Nanoscience is the science of very small particles known as nanoparticles. A nanometre is one millionth of a millimetre. To give you an idea of how long a nanometre is: a printed page is about 75,000 nanometres thick and human hair is 50,000 nanometres thick. When structures are made small enough, in the nanometre size range – they can take on interesting and useful properties.

Very few institutes offer graduation in this field. Some of these are SRM University, Kattankulathur, Chennai; Noorul Islam University, Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu; Amity Institute of Nanotechnology, Noida.

Most of the institutes offer M.Tech and Ph.D. Some good institutes are Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of science; Centre for Nanotechnology & Advanced Biomaterials (CeNTAB) Sastra University, Thirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur.

Nanotechnology is still in the early stages of development in India. The Government of India has instituted S&T Initiatives in nanotechnology. However, nanotechnology professionals are in great demand in mainstream electronics, industrial products and healthcare markets.

 

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I want to become an interior designer.

I am in Std IX and I want to become an interior designer. Which subject should I opt for in Std XI and what to do after school? I’m confused as to how to begin.

Do you have good sense of color, form and a sense of balance and proportion? Can you communicate and promote ideas, verbally and visually? Can you draw well? These are some of the basic skills you require to become an interior designer.

Creativity is very crucial. A portfolio, representative of your best work, is sometimes more important in finding a job than an extensive education. You can always find successful designers who had no formal training of professional designing. Still, a course from a good institute certainly helps to sharpen your skills; later you can develop the instinct through talent, experience and practice.

Many institutes like School of Interior Design, Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT), Ahmedabad, offer a five-year professional course in interior design. Admission is through an entrance examination to evaluate one’s drawing skills, especially technical drawing and spatial apperception and interview.

Various polytechnics, institutes and vocational colleges offer diploma courses of 2-3 years’ duration. For all these courses eligibility is 10+2. So you can take any stream in 10+2.

 

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I need to answer to get admission for Master’s of Pharmacy

I am doing Pharmacy (third year). Please suggest various exams that I need to answer to get admission for Master’s of Pharmacy and any good colleges for this in India? What jobs can I apply for with a Master’s degree? I would also like to know about Pharm. D.

Masters in Pharmacy as a post-graduate academic degree is for 2 years spread over four semesters. Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D) is a six-year programme for which eligibility is 10+2. It includes five years of academics and one year of training sessions. But for those who have completed B. Pharm., the duration of Pharm. D reduces to three years, which includes one compulsory year of residency or internship.

Institutes offering these courses are: University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh, Bombay College of Pharmacy, Mumbai; IITBHU, etc.

Admission process for these courses varies across colleges. Most institutes offering these courses select students based on their performance in a relevant entrance test. Some Institutes admit students on the basis of marks scored by them in Bachelor’s degree programme, while some conduct their own entrance tests.

Some of the major entrance examinations are: GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test); UPSEE Pharmacy (Uttar Pradesh State Entrance Examination); BITS HD Pharmacy (Birla Institute of Technology Higher Degree Pharmacy), National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Joint Entrance Exam (NIPERJEE).

Both courses have their own significance. If one wants to work in production of drugs, M. Pharm. In pharmaceutics/pharmaceutical analysis/industrial pharmacy is the best choice. If one is willing to learn and work in clinical and hospital setting then M. Pharm. In pharmacology/pharmacy practice and Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D) is the best choice.

 

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I am interested in writing and I’m quite good at it.

I am a student of Class X. I am interested in writing and I’m quite good at it. Moreover, I love English. So I am planning to take English Literature after 12th followed by a course in creative writing. Can you tell me if there is any college in India that offers this course (even abroad)? Kindly mention the jobs that I can opt for by taking those courses.

An essential requirement to become a creative writer is passion for writing and love to communicate with words. This field requires a lot of imagination, observation and an inborn ability to create pictures of the natural world.

There are many institutes all over India which offer courses n creative writing. But most of these are diploma courses with duration of 1-3 years. Eligibility for these courses is graduation.

Some such institutes are: Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and communication, New Delhi; Amity Institute of English and Business Communication, Noida; Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media, Bangalore; Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi; The British Council located in all metro cities in India; Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New Delhi; Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi offers a post-graduate diploma in Creative Writing through its distance learning programme.

You can work as a content writer in any of the KPO firms or get involved in writing stories, articles, books and scripts that are highly demanded by editors and publishers. Even a career as a freelance writer may provide you with a good income.

 

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I want to become an archaeologist

I am a student of Class 9 and I will soon become a student of class 10 (CBSE board). What Maths should I choose – standard or basics – as I want to become an archaeologist? What courses should I do after Class 10? Is there good scope for Archaeology in India? Please help me with the list of Institutes and courses.

Archaeology is the study of uncovering the roots of human civilization by investigating artifacts left behind by previous civilizations. The responsibility of an archaeologist is to gather different types of evidence of human past from various places using data using drawing, notes and photography. Most people picture archaeologists digging up the earth with tools all around them, but archaeology is much more than that.

For admission to Archaeology courses, Mathematics is not required. So if you do not like Maths, you can go for basic Maths now. Then in 10+2, you may take any combination of subjects, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in History, Sociology or Anthropology.

Most of the Universities in India offer the subjects at the post-graduation level. Some of these are: Institute of Archaeology, Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi; The Delhi Institute of Heritage, Culture and Archaeology, Punjab University, Chandigarh; Deccan College Post-Graduate and Research Institute, Pune; MS University at Baroda, Vadodara.

As an Archaeologist you can work in private or government-owned museums for the safe upkeep and management of museum artifacts. A degree-holder in Archaeology can also work as tourist guides, heritage managers, and resource persons of trip organizers in tourism. They have great scope in jobs as well as research in various colleges and Universities.

 

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How can I make my career in the field of Geology? Do I have to take Science or Arts?

Geology is the study of the Earth, the materials it is made up of, the structure of the materials and the processes by which they change. To pursue a career in this field, you must have Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in 10+2. After that you may go for graduation in Science (B.Sc.) followed by post-graduation in Geology. Or else, go for B.Tech. in Mining Engineering followed by M.Tech.

Geologists work in the areas of exploration and production, water supply, environmental engineering and geological surveying. Other areas include environmental planning, hydrogeology and pollution control. Employment is often found within the oil, gas and petroleum sector, the groundwater and construction companies.

 

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I want to become a journalist and pursue higher studies in broadcast journalism.

I am in my first year of graduation (English). I want to become a journalist and pursue higher studies in broadcast journalism. What should I do for this? Please help me out with the course and college needed.

A many institutes offer a 3-year degree in journalism for which the eligibility is 10+2 in any stream. You may go for a one-year post-graduate course in journalism after completing your graduation.
Some of the good institutes are Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan Centres, Indian institute of journalism & new media, Bangalore, Indian Institute of Mass Communication, JNU New Campus, New Delhi, and Makhanlal Chaturvedi Rashtriya Patrakarita Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, Mass Communication Research Centre, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi school of Communication & Management Studies, S, Kalamassery, Cochin, Xavier Instittute  of Communication, St Xavier’s college, Mumbai.

 

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I am a class 12 student with PCB as my subjects. I am preparing for MH-CET entrance but would like to know other career options for this line as well. And a few study and concentrations tips, too.

After 10+2 with PCB, you can go for various healthcare careers like physicians, pharmacists, therapists, nursing and medical technologists. But besides these, there are several other general career areas for biologists. The growing emphasis on environmental preservation is creating another career path for biologists: conservation, wildlife study and occupational safety. Those having an interest in computers can also go for Bioinformatics, a field that promises to change the way we diagnose and treat diseases and provide healthcare.

To increase your concentration, the first thing is to switch your phone off or put it in another room! Don’t consume too much tea or coffee. These have caffeine that gives you more strength for some time but soon leaves you sluggish. Speak out loud instead of simply reading. Drawing diagrams will help you to visualize information which would be hard to describe. This creates a visual memory in your mind which can be recalled in an exam.

For better productivity, take a short break after every 45-50 minutes of study as your focus and concentration will become impaired after this period. Lastly, make sure to get adequate rest and sleep well. When you sleep, your studying, so getting a good night’s sleep will help you remember those pesky maths formulas you need for your exam!

 

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I am interested in Commerce and my aim is to do C.A.

I’ve written my SSLC exam and waiting for the result. I am interested in Commerce and my aim is to do C.A. If I want to do C.A., is it necessary to choose basic Maths in PUC or can I go for CEBA (Computer Science, Economics, Business Studies, Accountancy)?

Chartered Accountancy is essentially a finance-related course that empowers you to certify all accounts including the balance sheet of an organization. It also gives you a better grasp of financial statements along with an extensive knowledge of tax laws, management accounting and corporate laws.

The institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is the only institute to provide training in this field in India. To be recognized as a C.A., a person must pass all the exams laid down by ICAI, and should be a registered member with ICAI. Eligibility is 10+2 in any stream, Mathematics in 10+2 is not a compulsory requirement.

Chartered Accountancy education and training has three stages – the Common Proficiency Test (CPT), the Intermediate Professional Competence Course (IPC) and the final C.A. course. Dedication and hard work is a must to complete the course. The institute provides postal coaching for all the courses.

For CPT, students can enroll with the institute after Std X and take the test after plus two. The test is held twice a year in June and December. The course content comprises Accounting, Mercantile Laws, Economics and Quantitative Aptitude. It is an objective-type test of 200 marks divided into two sessions of two hours each.

One is eligible for the IPC exam after nine months of study, after passing CPT. The IPC exam has two groups of seven subjects. On passing Group I, a student can register as an articled assistant for three years under a qualified C.A. The articled training is important for the C.A. course. They are paid a striped during the training.

After clearing the IPC examination, register for the final C.A. course which consists of group I and II with eight papers. Students should compulsorily undergo two General Management and Communication Skills courses of 15 days each.

 

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I am a student of class XI and have taken Commerce and Mathematics. I am looking forward to my ambition to become a C.A. How do I proceed after Class XII?

Chartered Accountancy is essentially a finance-related course that empowers you to certify all accounts including the balance sheet of an organization. It also gives you a better grasp of financial statements along with an extensive knowledge of tax laws, management accounting and corporate laws.

The institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is the only institute to provide training in this field in India. To be recognized as a C.A., a person must pass all the exams laid down by ICAI, and should be a registered member with ICAI. Eligibility is 10+2 in any stream, Mathematics in 10+2 is not a compulsory requirement.

Chartered Accountancy education and training has three stages – the Common Proficiency Test (CPT), the Intermediate Professional Competence Course (IPC) and the final C.A. course. Dedication and hard work is a must to complete the course. The institute provides postal coaching for all the courses.

For CPT, students can enroll with the institute after Std X and take the test after plus two. The test is held twice a year in June and December. The course content comprises Accounting, Mercantile Laws, Economics and Quantitative Aptitude. It is an objective-type test of 200 marks divided into two sessions of two hours each.

One is eligible for the IPC exam after nine months of study, after passing CPT. The IPC exam has two groups of seven subjects. On passing Group I, a student can register as an articled assistant for three years under a qualified C.A. The articled training is important for the C.A. course. They are paid a striped during the training.

After clearing the IPC examination, register for the final C.A. course which consists of group I and II with eight papers. Students should compulsorily undergo two General Management and Communication Skills courses of 15 days each.

 

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What is the scope in Biochemistry?

I’m currently doing my U.G. in Biochemistry. I wanted to know its scope and the available P.G. courses for Biochemistry or courses related to Biochemistry as well as institutions in India and abroad. What steps do I need to take to excel in this field?

Many universities all over India offer PG courses in Biochemistry. Some of these are JNU, New Delhi; Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai; University of Mumbai, Mumbai. All major universities in other countries also offer a specialization in this field. Some of them are Harvard University, MIT, John Hopkins University, Stanford University in USA and Oxford University, Cambridge University in U.K.

Though there is not much with just a graduate degree, there are good opportunities for those with a M.Sc. in Biochemistry. They can work in research laboratories, diagnostic centres, biotech firms, hospitals, agricultural industries, drug manufacturing companies, forensic departments, cosmetic industries, health care centres, and so on. Biochemists are also in high demand in pharmaceutical firms, food industries and agro-chemical companies so as to develop newer products. They are also required to monitor the manufacturing processes, quality control and safety of the existing products.

 

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How will I get job in India after studying at USA?

I’m a second year student of Sacramento City College and my major is Biochemistry. I feel that studies in India are better than in the U.S. I am thinking of moving back to India after studies. Please suggest some major or field of study that will get me a well-paid job in India if I get the degree from USA.

Biochemistry career opportunities can be virtually limitless; private research institutions, hospitals, government organizations all hunt for good biochemists. Their goals are usually similar – to research, experiment, conduct trials and find cures for diseases like cancer and AIDS and even mental disorders.

Mainly, there are three specializations. In medicine, they identify the causes of disease, understand their effect on the body in chemical terms and try and isolate the indicators that signal impending disease. This requires tracking chemical changes through normal bodily functions like muscle contraction, respiration, etc. in the field of agriculture, biochemists are developing cultivation innovations, improving pest control and optimizing crop storage. Another popular field is nutrition, where a biochemist’s job is to investigate the effect of various minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins on the human body.

It is always better to specialize but keep in mind that almost all the specializations require good research technique and the ability to combine and analyze information.

 

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I wist to be a Hollywood singer.

I’m a student of Std IX. I want to take up music as y career. I want to be a Hollywood singer. I have been the topper of our local music school from 2012 onwards. I have also won several competitions. Which institutes can I attend after Std X, and the necessary criteria required for admission. I’m from a middle class family so are there any scholarships available?

Hollywood is the destination for singers who hope to achieve success in any possible genre. There’s no completely certain path to become a world-famous singer, but here are some things you can do to increase your odds.

  • Determine your type of voice. Most singers in Hollywood are well schooled on their vocal abilities. You need to know your vocal abilities before gathering music that will best display your own special sound,
  • Study music. Take up an instrument, such as the keyboard or guitar, to make your singing performances even more entertaining.
  • Record and market your music.
  • Be determined and persistent. There’s a lot of competition out there. Most successful singers spend years working on their voice and playing low-paying gigs before they make it big. Don’t lose sight of your goal, and resolve to be patient.
  • Sing in public whenever possible. Even if you don’t get spotted by a musician right away, you’re practicing your stage presence and getting used to being in front of a crowd.
  • Network. Make connections with other musicians. You never know who might want to collaborate with you in the future.
  • Learn how to handle criticism. Accept rejection and move on.

 

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Air Force after XII?

I am a bit confused about what to choose as a career after Std XII. Presently, I am studying in Std XII with Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Computers as my subjects. The main reason for my confusion is that I don’t want to opt for B.Tech., and want to go into fields related to the air force or navy. I just wanted your advice as to what should I go with as my career after 12th. – Liza.

Dear Liza, If you want to fly high in the sky or dream of being an Air Warrior of the IAF, then you need to clear AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test). It is held twice a year. After clearing AFCAT, you can opt for flying/technical/ground duty. Post-graduates can go for the meteorology branch that does not require AFCAT. Candidates should be graduates in their respective fields with Physics and Maths in 10+2.

The Indian Navy recruits girls for the following branches of the Navy as Short Service Commissioned Officers: ATC, Observer, Law, Logistics, Education, Naval Architecture. Both the navy and the air force recruit candidates with graduation.

 

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I want to become a professor

I am studying in Std XII with PCM as my main subjects. I have a great interest in nuclear physics and I love Maths. I want to become a professor. What steps do I need to take to achieve this? I have planned to join a B.Sc./Int. M.Sc. course after school. Please give information about the good colleges in India that offer the course with equal importance to student activities on campus. What entrance exams do I need to crack? Will University of Delhi be a good option?

Graduation/post-graduation in Mathematics is offered by most of the universities in India. A master’s degree is the minimum requirement to teach at the college level; however, universities prefer a Ph.D. and also offer extra increments to these candidates. For a Ph.D., you need to clear National Eligibility Test (NET)/ State-Level Eligibility Test (SLET).

After B.Sc. (Hons), you can also apply for an Integrated M.Sc.- Ph.D. degree. For this integrated programme the best places are: Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai; The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMsc), Chennai; Harish Chandra research Institute (HRI), Allahabad; Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) at Pune, Mohali, Kolkata, Trivandrum and Bhopal, and at the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) AT Bhubaneswar.

To enter the field of nuclear physics you should have a good grounding in Physics. So you could start with an undergraduate degree in Physics and go for post-graduation with this specialization. Some of the institutes offering such courses are IIT Mumbai, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur, Guwahati, Madras and Roorkee; The Indian Institute of Scienecs, Bangalore; The Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata; TATA Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai; Institute of Physics, Bhubaneswar; Nuclear science Centre, New Delhi.

 

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I am a student of Std XII in the Commerce stream (with Computer Science). I wanted to know about the courses available for a non-Maths student in the best colleges of Delhi University.

Since you have a Commerce background, you can go for courses like Chartered Accountancy (CA), Cost & Works Accountancy (CWA), Company Secretaryship (CS), and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Otherwise, you may go for regular courses like Bachelor of Business Administration/Bachelor of Business Studies or Bachelor of Financial and Investment Analysis (BFIA) or a course in Business economies. The Delhi School of Economics offers a B.A. (Economics) as well as a Master’s in economics.

 

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I have a great passion for flying and I want to become an airline pilot.

I am student of Std XI with PCM. I have a great passion for flying and I want to become an airline pilot. But I’m very tense about my weak eyesight. I wear glasses. What should I do to become a pilot? What are its requirements and which flying schools are the best?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions amongst people. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) says that you can apply if your eyesight is correctable to 20/20 for distance vision through eyeglasses while 20/40for near vision. One only has to carry an extra set of glasses while flying. There are no other restrictions for people with poor eyesight for becoming pilots.

You need to clear a physical fitness test (tough one), apart from an entrance test exam of the flying schools in India. Even after becoming commercial pilots, they need regular medical check-ups as any health problems can cause cancellation of the license of the pilot.

There are many flying schools all over India, but Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA), Rae Bareli (UP) is the only institute for aviation training run by the government. Entry into IGRUA is through an online written test, interview and pilot aptitude test. The training fee at IGRUA is Rs 32.5 lakh, exclusive of hostel and other fees. Many banks can give loans up to 50%.

 

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After my +2 (Computer Science), I did Polytechnic (Computers). I am now doing B.Com. (Co-operations). What are the courses that I can choose after this to get a good and secure job?

Nowadays almost all organizations and companies are reliant on computers. So, all companies require computer engineers for development, maintenance and repair of computer systems.

With a polytechnic diploma, you can find jobs in Government PSUs (Public Sector Companies) and also private companies. Some of the PSUs are GAIL (India) Limited, BHEL (Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited), Coal India Limited, BEL (Bharat Electronics Limited), HPCL (Hindustan Petroleum Corporation limited), SAIL (Steel Authority of India Limited), NTPC Limited, Indian Oil, ONGC Limited, RailTel Corporation, if interested. You can work as a Junior Engineer in the railways. For the notification and advertisement of recruitment, you need to go to the official website of the concerned PSU.

If you have done a 3-year diploma in Computer Engineering, then you may go for B.Tech/B.E. in CSE. Candidate can go directly to the 2nd year of the course via lateral entry.

 

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I am interested in digital interior designing

I am a student of Std X. I am interested in digital interior designing. I want to know whether there are any diploma courses available for digital interior designing. Please list the colleges in Pune which offer this course.

A digital interior designer is an interior designer who works on multimedia and graphics projects and applies his or her technical and creative skills to this field. If you are technically apt and visually inventive, a career as a digital designer may be an excellent choice.

A good course in interior design also teaches students the best ways t convey messages through a digital medium. Organizing information and presenting it in a way that connects with an audience is the ultimate goal of good design, but students also learn how to use specialized programs to complete their tasks, including Adobe Flash, Photoshop, Autodesk, Adobe Illustrator, Google SketchUp and more.

The best institutes to do this course are National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad and School of Interior Design, Centre for Environmental Planning and technology University, Ahmedabad. There are many institutes offering these courses in Pune. Some of these are MIT Institute of Design, Pune; Pearl Academy; iNIFD, Pune.

 

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I want to make a career in Psychology but I don’t know about its scope in Dehra Dun and Delhi. Please guide me.

 

A psychology degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Psychology graduates have knowledge of the assessment of personality, intelligence and attitudes, interviewing techniques, questionnaire design and analysis, child development, and methods of teaching and learning. This knowledge can be applied to an enormous number of occupations and profession like market research, social work, personnel management and career guidance. They may also be involved in investigations such as crime detection and lie detection.

You need at least a Master’s degree for professional work in which you might administer and interpret psychological tests, counsel college students with educational or emotional problems, or help the handicapped find suitable training and employment. Some firms employ their own psychologists who are always on the lookout to improve methods of training, working conditions, method of salesmanship, etc.

With a doctorate’s degree, they can qualify for more responsible research and counseling positions in hospitals, clinics and other health facilities. Research psychologists examine the behaviour of individuals in order to understand and explain how and why they act as they do.

The work of a psychologist should not be confused with that of the psychiatrist who are medical practitioners specializing in the prevention and cure of psychological disorders. The training of a psychiatrist usually takes a much different track when compared with psychologists.

 

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I’m a student of Std X. I want to be a paediatrician. What steps should I take to pursue this?

Becoming a paediatrician or a child specialist requires 5-6 years of training beyond an MBBS degree. First, clear 10+2 examination with Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Then appear in a competitive exam to get admission into MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery). This is a 5 ½ year course which includes a one-year internship period as well.

After MBBS, you should go for 2 years PG Diploma for 3 years M.D. in Paediatrics. The selection of a candidate for PG courses is done through entrance examinations. After completion of M.D./M.S., it is better to study further and do a super specialization.

Admissions for 100% seats of MBBS/BDS in various medical/dental colleges, except AIIMS and JIPMER Puducheery, is done through the common entrance test called NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test). This year, NEET was conducted on 7 May 2017.

Pediatricians need the same skills other specialists do, such as good communication skills, problem-solving and critical thinking. But they also need to have an extra level of understanding when working with children.

 

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I am a student of Std IX. I want to become a lawyer. What should I do to become a lawyer?

 

After completing 10+2 in any stream, go for BALLB, which is of 5 years’ duration. Admission is through Common Law Admission Test (CLAT). Some institutes conduct their own entrance examination.

The course incorporates a lot of practical training and also includes court attendance, legal research projects, and practical work in legal aid centres. To qualify for legal practice, a year’s apprenticeship in a legal firm is essential. Law graduates are allowed to practice law throughout the country only after they get themselves enrolled as advocates at the Bar Council.

Some of the well-known institutes are: National Law School of India University, Bangalore; NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad; National Law Institute University, Bhopal; The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata; National Law University, Jodhpur; ILS Law College, Pune.

 

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Media & Mass Communication

What is Media & Mass Communication? What are the career opportunities in the film and advertisement industry? What is the possibility of taking an MBA in Communication Management after this degree?

The term Mass Communication refers to the process of delivering and transferring of messages and news to a large group of people using different forms of media like newspapers, radio, internet and television. Many institutes offer a 3-year-Bachelor’s and 2-year—Master’s degree programme in Mass Communication. It is also known by various names like Communication Studies, Media Studies, Communication Science, Communication Arts and Media Science, Communication Arts and Media Science. For an MBA in any specialization, you require a Bachelor’s degree in any field.

Career opportunities in any field depend on your capability and the courses you’ve done. For a qualified person in a specific field, the scope may be very good, but the same field will not offer the same opportunity to an unqualified person. So try to focus on your capability, aptitude and interest and go for the courses, and hence career, which is suitable to you. Don’t opt for a career just because someone says that it has good opportunities.

 

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I want to be an astrophysicist. What should I do after Std X? I will be giving any Std X exams this year. Which colleges will be good for admission?

The study of Astrophysics requires a strong background in Physics and Maths. After 10+2, go for B.Sc. with PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Maths) or B.Tech. After completing these courses go for postgraduation and later Ph.D.

There are some specialized institutes for such research work. Some of these are: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA); Bangalore; Institute of Physics (IOP), Bhubhaneswar; Inter-University Centre for Astronomy & Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune; Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore; Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore; National Centre for Radio astrophysics, Pune.

 

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I am a student of Std X. I am really interested in literature and would like to pursue my career in this field. Please help me with a list of career options, courses and colleges in this field.

Literature is a vast and engaging field. But the career path after college is somewhat undefined, largely because there’s so much you can do with a degree in literature.

Many of the skills, obtained through the study of English, are highly prized in every job or profession. These are: being able to write well; to convey meaning precisely; to argue and debate; to read pages of prose and pick out the essential points; to persuade others of your point of view; to think and act creatively.

Media can be a good fit for an English literature graduate, as they offer a good way to apply your knowledge of the written language. These skills will also serve you well in advertising and marketing. Teaching in another option; from primary education right up to college, the English subject is considered important at all stages.

Publishing is an area that is coming up fast, and those with a literary bent of mind should definitely consider it. You’ll probably start off as a proof-reader, but who knows, you may be editing a best-selling novel in the years to come!

Creative writing and even technical writing is yet another option. A career in technical writing does not require a scientific or engineering background, but it does require an excellent command of the English language and the ability to write logically, clearly and accurately.

Translation is yet another area, especially if you’re familiar with another language besides English. Due to their improved skills, even advertising and PR agencies find literature graduates suitable for their work.

 

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I am a student of Std VII. I want to make career in tour management. What steps should I take?

Tour managers are responsible for accompanying tours from beginning to end. They play an integral part in ensuring their clients’ tour experience meets their expectation. A professional course in tour management will help you understand the nuances of the job. Many institutes offer short-term courses in tour management. Preference is given to applicants who are well-travelled. The knowledge of a foreign language also helps in securing admission. Usually, tour guides get most of their training on the job, as most travel agencies train their tour operators at least for two months before sending them on solo trips. The finer tricks of the trade are learnt by assisting senior tour mangers, observing them while they manoeuvre and make the trip exciting for travellers. Eligibility for these courses is graduation. Since you are in class VII, at present, just focus on your current studies and do well.

 

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I am a student of Std VIII. I want to pursue my career in astronomy. I want to join ISRO. What are the qualifications and degrees required? Please list the suitable colleges in Mumbai to pursue this.

The first step is to take Mathematics and Physics in 10+2. There are not many universities in India which offer an undergraduate programme in Astronomy, so you should go for B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics. Then go for M.Sc. followed by Ph.D.; this will enable you to become an astronomer. If you are keen on joining ISRO, then one of the modes is through Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Trivandrum. IIST offers 4-year B.Tech. programmes and 5-year dual degree programmes and admission is on the basis of your score in the JEE Advance examination. After completion of the programme, students, on the basis of merit, are absorbed by ISRO.

 

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I am becoming emotionally weak

I’m a first year engineering student. I stay in a hostel. I had very good friends in intermediate who were quite supportive and accompanied me in every situation. Now my university is quite far from home and the previous intermediate college. It’s been three months since college has started; a new place and new environment with co-education. I waited patiently to make good friends. But I have only a few classmates to spend time with and they often get busy with their work. I’m becoming emotionally weak and to get over this, I try to keep myself busy but yet end up with the same feeling. I need to make myself stronger.

It seems like you are feeling lonely in your new hostel and college, and are missing your friends and family.
From what you say, I understand that your friends in Intermediate were girls, and you spent a lot of time doing things together. But, now you are in a coed professional college, where students do a lot of independent work and are focused on their academic, and later career goals. Three months is a short time; give yourself a few more months to adjust and feel fully settled in.
When you constantly think about what is not working, it can make you feel emotionally weak. Firstly, set yourself a routine for your studies and free time. In your free time, find out what you can do on your own – going for walks, exploring the campus or shopping areas, reading, and more.
Spend time discovering what your interests and strengths are. Your interests can help you to participate in campus activities and meet like-minded people, as well as to start up a conversation. Not having a steady group can provide an opportunity to know so many more people!
Take this time on your own as a learning opportunity which will help you become a strong, independent young woman!

 

 

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My parents are not happy about my career choice

I am a student of Std IX and I want to b a journalist. Even though my parents haven’t said ‘no’ to me, they do not seem happy about this career choice. They have great expectations about me becoming an engineer or a doctor. But I am passionate about becoming a journalist. Also they always doubt whether I have a boyfriend or they think I am up to something wrong. Because of this I am very stressed and depressed. I don’t know what to do.

You are really stressed about the fact that you are passionate about becoming a journalist, but that you don’t think your parents support your choice, and seem to expect something more from you.

A good way to begin is to list your talents and strengths and weaknesses. Will these be used when you become a journalist? For example, are you good at writing? Are you willing to travel and cover a story? List what you love about journalism and why you want to be a journalist. Also list down my disadvantages. If you are convinced that this is the career for you, invite your parents to a discussion. Ask them to share what they expect of you and why; hear them out. Then, share with them what makes you so passionate about journalism and try to convince them.

It must greatly distress you that your parents don’t seem to trust you with regard to having a boyfriend or ‘doing something wrong’. Reflect on and examine what it is that you are perhaps unconsciously doing to give them that impression. You are now in class IX; take charge of yourself and show them that you are responsible and trustworthy.

 

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I don’t want to hurt his feelings

When I was in Std 7, a boy in my class proposed to me. A year went by and now I am in Std 8 and he says he still loves me. I don’t want to be in a relationship with him but I also don’t want to hurt his feelings as a classmate. I told my mother about this and she simply says to ignore him but I don’t want to do that although I try my best to do so.

You seem to be in a dilemma about hurting the feelings of your classmate. That is thoughtful of you. However, you need to take a firm stand and show him you are not interested – both for your sake and his. It is better that he does not have any false hopes. 
You could choose to explain this to him firmly but kindly. Help him to understand that you don’t dislike him as person, but that you don’t want to be in a relationship now. When doing so, use ‘I…’ language. For example, “I would like to focus on my studies and am not interested in a relationship. I do hope you understand.” This way, you are not rejecting him, but are starting your preference, which you have every right to do.

 

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I don’t know why I try to avoid them

I’m a student of class 11. My interaction skill with boys, teachers or strangers is disguising; I don’t know why I try to avoid them. I love dancing and people say that I dance well but when it comes to dancing before people I can’t, my legs start to shake. I have the same problem when speaking or singing in public. I compare myself with my friends; how they score better than me even after friends; how they score better than me even after not paying attention in class and even bunking classes. I know that I’m the only one who can make myself better but I don’t know how to do it. I’m never motivated enough to change myself.

It sounds like you feel very tongue-tied and shy and experience stage fright in front of people. It looks like you don’t value yourself or believe in yourself. Since you know that you are the only one who can make yourself better, you’re off to a good start!

How about a dose of self-appreciation each morning? Look into the mirror and appreciate one thing about yourself, however small. Write it down too. By the end of two weeks, you will realize that you are unique and that it is pointless to compare yourself with someone else!

Change happens with small steps and regular practice. You could perhaps start by rehearsing a dance or a speech in front of a mirror. Then video-record yourself or perform in front of a trusted friend and ask for feedback. Then try it in front of a small group. Finally, take the risk of joining a dance or an elocution competition in your school/college.

As for your personal interaction skills, making a conversation is about starting with small talk – the weather, an event, and so on, and then asking getting others to talk – so master the art of asking open-ended questions. You could pick up a book on conversation skills such as How To Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes and practice in the same manner as your dance/speech.

Change is a choice that you make each moment. So, make each experience one to learn from and grow, so that you like life fully!

 

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A class in careers

I am a student of class IX. My queries are : I have heard about NTSE. What is it and who can apply for it? What are the subjects included and which book to consult for it? Also, is coaching necessary for IIT / civil services? Tell me how to prepare for IIT-JEE and civil services.

First, about the National Talent Search  Examination (NTSE). NTSE is conducted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT),New Delhi. NCERT under its National Talent Search Scheme awards 1,000 scholarships, including 150 for scheduled castes and 75 for scheduled tribes candidates, each year. The objective of the scheme is to identify brilliant students at the end of Class X and give them financial assistance towards getting good education. The scheme, launched in 1963 and extended to the rest of the country in 1964, and has undergone several modifications in the last four decades.

All students studying in Class X in any recognised school, including Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas and Sainik Schools, are eligible to appear for the state level examination in the state in which the candidate’s school is located. The talent identification is done in two stages. The first selection is done by the states / union territories, whereas the second stage selection, at the national level, is carried out by NCERT.

Each state/UT conducts its own examination. It has the freedom to lay down its own norms for the purposes of determining the eligibility of the candidates. The state determines the candidates to be sent for the national-level examination, on the basis of its own written examination. The state level screening examination is conducted in all states/UTs on the fourth Sunday of November, except in Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram where it is conducted on the fourth Saturday of November every year.

Students studying in Class X in the country should be on the look out for the advertisement in the newspapers or circular in the school by the respective government of their state/UT for the examination and act as per the requirement in the state advertisement / circular. They should submit the filled-in application form to the state liaison officer through the principal of the school before the due date as advertised/circulated by each concerned state/UT.

The Mental Ability Test has 100 multiple-choice type items, with five alternatives. Each item carries one mark. A variety of questions, such as analogies, classification, series, pattern perception, hidden figures, coding-decoding, block assembly and the like are asked. Candidates are required to answer the items on a separate answer sheet as per instructions given both in the test booklet and on the answer sheet.

SAT consists of 100 multiple-choice questions of one mark each. Each question has four alternatives, out of which only one is the correct answer. There are 40 questions from sciences, 40 from social sciences and 20 from mathematics. In science, there are questions from physics, chemistry and biology. Similarly, in social sciences there are questions from history, geography and civics. The question in mathematics cover algebra, arithmetic, geometry, trigonometry, statistics and mensuration. Candidates are required to answer the items on a separate answer sheets.

The medium of examination is English or regional languages, as provided in the Constitution of India. The language in which a candidate wants to take the test has to be mentioned in the application form for the state-level examination. Accordingly, a question booklet in that language is made available to the candidate. No request for change of medium is entertained. The state level examination also has two-part examinations – MAT and SAT. The medium of the test is announced by each state/UT.

The test demands both speed and accuracy. So work on improving both. Use your time wisely. If you find a question difficult, skip it and move ahead without wasting too much time on it. You can always return to these questions once you have completed the entire test.

Though there is no negative marking, wild guessing does not help. The trick is to make intelligent guesses. If you can rule out one or two options as definitely wrong, you improve your chance of scoring in that question.

Whenever you come across a question that has got more than one correct answer, choose only the most appropriate one.

In MAT, questions of the same type are grouped together. Since the instructions for all these questions are the same, read them carefully and answer the questions together.

As regards coaching for IIT-JEE and civil services, it helps to join a course, for a number of reasons. It channelizes your preparation. You can take advantage of a qualified faculty that has perhaps been through the examination process itself, knows the examination pattern thoroughly well and guides you how to approach the paper. This last part is important because even bright students at times mess up an exam if they don’t know the right approach. Also, you get to interact with a whole batch, you take a number of tests in stimulated conditions and you know where you stand.

As regards preparation for IIT-JEE, we carry an article in this issue regarding the changed IIT-JEE pattern. For civil services, the answer to the next question will help you.

 

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Career in Bio Technology

My daughter is a student of class XII, pursuing science stream. She wants to do BTech in biotechnology. Please provide information regarding admission and names of colleges.

We hope that your daughter has filled the forms for various entrance exams for admission to BTech biotechnology offered by various universities/institutes. If she has not, she will have to apply next year. Or else she might think of BSc biotechnology, offered by a large number of universities.

The IITs have been offering a four year BTech course in Biotechnology for quite some time. IIT Kharagpur offers a BTech degree programme in biotechnology and biochemical engineering; IIT Chennai and IIT Guwahati offer a BTech degree in biotechnology; IIT Delhi and IIT Kharagpur offer a five-year dual degree MTech course (after completion of 10+2) in biochemical engineering & biotechnology; and IIT Chennai offers a similar MTech course in biotechnology. Admission to these courses is through a Joint Entrance Examination (IIT-JEE) after class XII.

Among the other institutes offering BTech are: Anna University, Chennai (BTech in industrial biotechnology); Bharathidasan Institute of Engineering and Technology, Tiruchirappalli; Guru Gobind Singh University, Delhi; Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar (BTech chemistry and Bio engineering); UP Technical University, Lucknow; Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore (Tamil Nadu).selection is on the basis of All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE), or the entrance exams conducted by various state governments.

 

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I have Love for law, how can I make career in this stream?

I have recently finished my board exams. I aspire to become a lawyer. I want to shape my career right away. What subjects one opt to become eligible? Apart from institution-based studies what other types of studies and coaching do I need to take up? Please give me a list of institutions, particularly those in Kolkata. How do I prepare for the various competitive exams? Please explain the entrance procedure. How else do I realise my aim?

The admission procedure to the National Law School league – the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore; National Academy of Legal Studies and Research (NALSAR), Hyderabad; National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata; National Law University (NLU), Jodhpur; and National Law Institute University (‘NLIU’) in Bhopal is already underway. The last date for forms is over. In fact, by the time, you receive this magazine these institutes would have conducted the entrance exam. You have not mentioned whether you have appeared for your class X or class XII exam. If you have just appeared for your class X board exam, the reply will be relevant for you.

The entrance exams are usually of around two hours’ duration and contain both objective and subjective type questions. The subjects tested are: English, analytical reasoning (Logic), legal reasoning, general knowledge (including legal awareness) and mathematics.

None of the sections in the papers are usually tough, keeping on mind the standard of the board exams in India. More than the toughness of the question it is time pressure and the number of applicants that make the selection procedure tough. The English section tests students on vocabulary, reading comprehension, structuring of sentences among other things; the analytical reasoning section tests students on identifying weak and strong arguments, syllogisms, relationships, sequencing etc; the legal reasoning section tests students on their ability to correctly apply a principle to a given set of facts and decide whether something is correct or incorrect; the general knowledge section tests students on their general awareness of basic laws and legal developments; and the mathematics section tests students mainly in basic commercial maths.

General knowledge and English vocabulary are two areas that require long term preparation. Make sure to read a good newspaper daily – not at the end of the week or once in a while. Keep an eye out for news relating to law or international affairs in some way or the others. Take it one step further by maintain a scrap book of relevant cutting from the papers. Pick up a weekly magazine to boost your knowledge. Do it regularly. Build it in your routine. Similarly, pick up new words and phrases from newspapers and magazines, not just for making a word list of your own. Use them in your day-to-day conversation. These are practices you will be thankful for when you sit for the exam.

It should be noted that these are areas where one has to rely upon oneself. You can’t expect a tutor to tell you ‘OK! Today we will do facts about the Olympic Games’ or ‘Today we will do the word iconoclast!

As regards the other areas mentioned above, these can be covered through an exhaustive preparation a month or two before exams. It will help you to take help of an experienced tutor for these areas.

 

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Give details about entrance of CFA @ ICFAI

 

I am B.Com Pass final year student. After my graduation I want to pursue chartered financial analyst course. Please suggest some institutes, along with their websites, which are offering this course. Please give me the details of the entrance exams like minimum cut-off in B.Com availability of forms and duration of the course. What are the prospects of the course?

The CFA qualification is given by Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI). It’s a three-year post-graduate programme, admission to which is done on the basis of a written test. Graduates from any discipline with at least 50 per cent marks can apply to the course. CFAs can have promising careers in finance, insurance and banking sectors.

The ICFAI website is as follows: www.icfai.org

 

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Being Girl, How can I join defence services of my nation?

I am a resident of Pune, appearing for my CBSE board exams. It’s my dream to serve the country by joining the defence services. My plan was to get educated at NDA. Unfortunately, I came to know that NDA at Pune prefers only boys. I want to know whether any NDA branch is for girls too. If there is, how can I join it as soon as I complete my class XII. What subjects should I opt for in class XI so as to satisfy the qualifications essential for entering NDA? Is Air Force for girls too? Can a girl be a pilot to serve the nation when there are wars in our country? What qualifications are necessary for being a squadron leader?

NDA doesn’t have any branch. And NDA is for boys alone. Entry for girls to the Armed Forces is possible after graduation. You can fulfil your ambition of joining the Air Force and becoming a pilot. But you will be able to fly helicopters and transport planes. Eligibility is BSc physics or maths or BSc general with physics and maths. Selection is on the basis of SSB tests, interview, a medical exam, and pilot aptitude battery test.

But there are scores of other opportunities for women candidate in the Indian Air Force and the other two wings of the Armed Forces. Thus, for example, there is direct entry for science graduates in air traffic control. There’s also direct entry for graduates in ground duty branches like administration & logistics and education.

In the Indian army women are recruited to the army service corps, army ordnance corps, Army intelligence corps, in the signals, and in engineering corps (technical services require an engineering degree). In the navy too women get entry in the education branch, logistics branch and Air Traffic Control, the last one being open to science graduates. Women can also join the Armed Forces Medical Service, after an MBBS at Armed Forces Medical College, Pune. If you are an NCC ‘C’ certificate holder, you can avail of the vacancies reserved for them in the three wings.

As to your query regarding qualification for a squadron leader, you become a squadron leader after promotions in the Indian Air Force. And you don’t have to be a fighter pilot for that. Ground duty officers also get that designation, or even higher designations. In fact, in 2002, Padma Bandopadhyay, became the first woman officer of the Indian Air Force to be promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal. She has risen to this high position as part of the medical service.

 

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How can I laugh in stress even?

Everyone in my family is tensed all the time – my father, my mother, my sister and myself. Money is not an issue. My parents earn well. There are no quarrels or anything. But no one really laughs heartily. Something is lacking. Can you make out what it could be? Does it have to do with the Vaastu of the house? Is it because of some part deeds – maybe in previous lives? How can one learn the art of living properly?

I do not know anything about Vaastu or the effect of the past etc. To be happy is within one’s own ability. If you want to be happy, no one can stop you from it. In some families people are little more serious than persons in other families. This is not unusual. However, if you do think that people are not ‘happy’ at home, you can look for the causes. Find out what makes them unhappy. If you know the cause, you can always remedy it. Remember, however, that ‘laughing’ by itself does not mean ‘happiness’. What makes one happy may not make another happy. Happiness is a relative term.

 

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How to understand about Learning curve of an individual ?

My elder daughter is in class VIII and younger one in class III. Nowadays, when I read news reports about young school students and even mothers committing suicide because of bad performance in exams, I become very upset. How can parents keep a constant tab on their child’s mood? My second worry is, even if parents are not pushy, the school – including teachers and peers – forces them into thinking that way. I remember that in the first year of our elder child’s school we were quite carefree and thought that the child would learn at her own pace. But soon complaints started coming in – if our child lagged behind in any respect. Soon we too started worrying about our child’s performance even at nursery and KG stage. True, there are exceptional stories of a child and his/her parents not bothering about academic record and the child doing very well in some creative field or the other. But what is the way out for a normal, middle class family?

I can understand your concern at parents and children committing suicide because the child did not perform well in the exams. Performing well in studies is indeed important but it is not the end of the world. What is important is that the child learns the subjects well, has a good grasp of it, is able to concentrate upon his work, completes the assignments and keeps pace with the class. If this is ensured, the performance of the child will not be below the level at which it should be. Parents should facilitate the child to do his work at his pace and to help complete whatever is expected of him or her (without doing his work for him. Parents must be alerted to any adverse changes in the child with regard to his studies, like sudden deterioration in studies, getting very poor marks in most subjects etc. Learning at one’s pace is fine, so long as the pace is in tune with the pace expected in the school and according to his age level and the class in which he studies. One need not expect a child of class III to perform at class V or VI level. If he is keeping pace with his age and class, the school will also not bother and you as parent need not worry.

 

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Lizard phobia

I am very scared of lizards. In fact, so grave is the problem that if I spot one in my room I cannot even enter it. It becomes extremely difficult in summers, when they are everywhere. Is this some kind of phobia? Can I get over it?

Many people are scared of lizards. If the lizards is driven away and the person is able to enter the room and carry on working, it is not a phobia. But if, despite knowing very well that there is no lizard in the room, you cannot enter the room or carry on your routine work, this may amount to phobia. Phobias are curable.

 

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How can I drag attention among the group.

I am not an introvert, but I can’t stand it if people don’t give me importance. I feel neglected at parties. How can I interact with people when they are discussing their own issues? How to get along with them, so that they give me importance?

You should stop thinking that you are the center of the world. Instead of thinking about yourself, start focusing on what other re talking about, what is the topic of their conversation and try to present your ideas about the topic concerned. People of your age usually want to talk about clothes, the latest fashion, studies future plans, latest happenings in the sports field, politics, films etc. Keep yourself updated by reading youth magazines, newspapers etc, so that you can express your views. Keep yourself abreast of these topics and join in the conversation of your friends rather than waiting for them to talk about your topic. This is the age when you start forming ideas, thinking differently and holding on to certain views on different topics. If you show your knowledge and contribute to the topic, they would welcome your ideas and the conversation will move on from there. Then you don’t have to worry that others are ignoring you.

 

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Putting up your opinion without losing friends.

I am a very social person and want to have a lot of friends. That is the reason I don’t want to annoy anyone by refusing him/her for anything or any work. I don’t express my feelings even if I don’t like anything about my friends. But my sister says that this is not good in the long run, and that I will make friends even if I am frank about my opinions. I want to learn that art. What is the secret behind it?

If you are social and have a circle of friends about which you feel happy, you need not worry whether you are right or wrong in refusing anyone or annoying anyone. You must worry only when you find that your approach causes you problems and makes you feel uncomfortable. Remember, each person has his/her own ways of dealing with others. So long as one’s way of interaction does not cause problems to oneself or others, and at the same time makes the person feel good, there is no need to change that approach.

 

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Does contentment in life stops progress ?

I am always unhappy about something or the other and am always cribbing. I want to be content. But some of my friends say that if I am content I will never progress in life. Is that true?    

It is indeed remarkable that you are aware you are unhappy and that you crib. When you are aware about it, it is only a question of self-introspection as to why you are unhappy. Is there any specific reason or event that makes you unhappy? You can find this out if you felt unhappy and see what event led to this. For all that you know it may be a trivial event about which you really need not have bothered. Also give a thought to your cribbing – what are you cribbing  about and whether the cribbing is justified. As you start thinking and analysing on these lines, you will automatically give up being unhappy and cribbing all the time.

As to the question of contentment, one must have a goal and should put in efforts to reach the goal using one’s own intellect, skill and efforts. Being unhappy and cribbing more often than you yields negative rather than positive results.

 

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By God’s grace

My parents were very fun-loving persons, but over the years, because of  financial constraints, have started believing in superstitions. They consult a pundit  for everything. In which direction should the puja  be done? They even believe in Vaastu  for home decor. They are now worried that the main door faces the wrong direction and that the kitchen is in the wrong part of the house. I want to tell them that it is not practical to implement large-scale changes in an ordinary household with limited means. But they are obsessed. Can you suggest a way out of this madness?

I do not know how old you are. Whatever your age, you must understand that in one’s life many behavioural changes occur due to a number of events that are at times very painful. Such events increase a person’s inclination towards superstitions beliefs and the tendency to depend upon God. In my view you should concentrate on your studies/ work and leave them to decide their course of actions,

Furthermore most people today believe in Vaastu and I am sure your parents do realise the economics of modifying various parts of the house. I am sure they will not do anything that will upset their on your lives. Have trust in them and I am sure things will change for the better. Despite all this, if you still want to do something about it, find a suitable and appropriate time and talk it over with them to express your concerns. I am sure their reply will bring about some comfort to you.

 

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How can I help my daughter from the exam monster ?

My younger daughter is in class VI and already she has started having performance anxiety. Come exam time and she develops all the symptoms, including stomach upset. I don’t know why she approaches exams in this fashion, when no one in the family exerts any pressure on her.

It is indeed a matter of concern that your daughter should have performance anxiety at this age, that too when none of you puts any pressure on her. The best way to approach this problem is to talk over with her and find out what exactly does she fear? Is it exams by themselves, is it her fear that she may forget what she has learnt, is it the fear that she has not been able to follow whatever is being taught in the class, are the teachers and peers pushing her into competition, is her brother or sister doing far better so that she feels that she also has to come up to that level and fears she will not be able to reach that level of expectation? Once you know the cause it would be easy to help her to get over the problem.

 

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What should students take heed when Abroad?

Money: Plan well. Save by using coupons, discounts, etc. Take advantage of ‘Sales’. Resist the urge to shop for unwanted items. Keep supplementing your income by hourly jobs.

Cultural shock: In some countries, students tend to be more boisterous than people from Indian culture. To remain unfazed, use the Reasonable Person Principle and do what a reasonable person would do in the same situation.

Study pressures: Take the right course, and manage your time well.

Food: The west was once non-vegetarians’  delight, and vegetarians’ hell. But today, there is a variety of juices, cheeses and fruits to be had. Learn to cook.

Friends: Choose your friends carefully. Some so-called friends could distract you from your goal.

Homesickness: You will miss your family, but if you use your e-mail effectively and pursue your hobby, it will surely cheer you up.

Insurance: Medical insurance can prove vital in countries where medical facilities cost a fortune. Take care of your health.

 

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Dilemma : Will my child be safe out there? When will send him abroad to higher studies?

“ We want to protect her for a long as we can,” says Dolly Malvai. “ But we realised that she would never be able to walk alone in life if we continued to shield her. We have to trust her and let her go.” Almost all Indian parents feel that their children severely lack the latest information, are ignorant of modern trends, and are immature and too inexperienced to take a rational career decision. They worry whether, once out of their reach, they will be able to guard themselves against everything that is “evil”. But Mrs Malvai felt that this was an occasion where she could show her daughter how much she trusted her, thus giving a tremendous boost to Rhea’s self-confidence.

 For Mrs Goel, the fear of racial discrimination was a very real deterrent. However, she felt that they had many relatives in the UK who could extend help if their child faced problems.

 A noted Delhi psychologist, Dr Shukla Shree Gupta says, “ Social and cultural differences can be the cause of depression, but this is a passing phase in every student’s life. A student from a small town can feel intimidated by the atmosphere of a metropolitan city, even in India. Parents can help by trusting their children to take the right decision at the right time.”

 

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Dilemma : Will my ward ever come back if I send him/her out of country for higher studies?

Once the child gets into the swing of leading an independent life, it becomes more and more difficult for him/her to consider returning to India. Lack of infrastructure and unstable political conditions in the country, which were once a part of their lives, become insurmountable problems for their future. Parents are well aware of these apprehensions in their children’s minds. Furthermore, the prospect of physical distancereinforces the fear they develop of not seeing the child for a long, long time.

 Take the case of Anirban, a commerce student of City College, Kolkata, His higher secondary results were abysmal by any standards and he faced a bleak future in his home state. He felt that even if he were to get a degree from an unknown college in the US, it would still promise a better life, if he worked hard enough. His parents were traumatised on the other hand  and even tried emotional blackmail by declaring, “Your father will suffer a heart attack if you go away.”

 Says Dr Achal Bhagat, MD, senior consultant psychiatrist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, “Parents are basically insecure about their own future when they try to impose such restrictions on their wards. They feel that their children’s support during their old age will crumble if they let go of them. But more and more middle class families in India are getting used to the concept of their children going abroad to further their dreams. The day of saat samundar paar are over and improved communication systems help remove the mental block against children travelling abroad.”

 

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Dilemma : Can we afford to send our child abroad for higher studies?

The first consideration is always that of being able to support the child in a foreign country for four years, or till such time that the child is able to secure some form of scholarship from the university where he or she is studying. Even if the family is from the upper middle-class, the cost of higher education abroad is forbidding. The parents have to educate themselves on the financial options available. Once they are able to work out the precise economics, they either become more open to the idea or it is a clear negative response. Then, of course, there are those who get scholarships from various universities and this considerably reduces parents’worries.

 

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The Big Dilemma

 When Anirban announced one fine day that he wanted to go abroad for higher studies, there was furore at the Dasgupta residence. His parents were dismayed and shocked and the immediate response was to disallow him to exercise this option. What followed were many days of coaxing by Anirban and many sleepless nights for his parents. Finally, Anirban flew off from Calcutta International Airport on a sultry August evening last year. His destination? The US of A. He has joined Austin College, Texas, for a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

 The Malvais from Gurgaon, on the other hand, found it easier to accept their daughter Rhea’s decision to go to the UK for a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. Although Rhea is still studying in class XI in Sriram School, her parents feel that she is a mature child and should be supported in her initiative to get admission at the Birmingham University. Their only concern is the financial fallout of this decision.

 Again, Sushma Goel from New Delhi found it difficult to accept her daughter Pankhuri leaving for Australia to get a bachelor’s degree in jewellery design and manufacture. She worried about her well-being, but was ultimately resigned to accept the inevitable.

 Commenting on his daughter Ayesha’s decision, Ajay Gopal says, “It wasn’t her or my decision. It was our joint decision while planning her career. We realised that in Bangalore or in India in general, entry into good colleges is virtually impossible. But once we decided to let her go abroad for further studies, we were in a dilemma. As a parent, my worry was that she would settle down there and get used to that lifestyle. But then, it’s her life. She wants to join a liberal arts college and major in economics, then work for two years after which she would do her MBA. Her admission is to be finalised in May and then she would leave by the end of August.”

 Reasons to go

In the present environment of rapid growth of technology and the ever increasing need for specialisation, a degree in higher education abroad has gained considerable significance. Students are finding it very difficult to obtain high quality education in India because of increasing competition and a limited number of good colleges. A stimulating educational environment and endless job opportunities, high standards of living exposure to a new world, a new culture, and the promise of good monetary returns have made higher education abroad an attractive proposition.

 But these are not the only reasons that lure a teenager towards the west. Impressionable minds are also influenced by social and peer pressure. Career choices are usually guided by friends’  choices or what is in vogue at that point of time. Very few actually think through the proposition in its totality.

 

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I want to become an educational consultant. What are the qualifications required for the same? What does the job involve?

As an educational consultant you could have a tie-up with a number of foreign universities and represent those universities here. In this case you will be the interface between a given university and the students, and will have to guide them about the application procedure, fees, visa requirements, etc. To be a representative of a foreign university, more than a degree your exposure to the field of education is assessed.

The other option is that of setting up a career counselling unit for students, and guide them about different career options within and outside India, and inform them about scholarships. A career counsellor should ideally be a bachelor of psychology, and should have done a PG course in career counselling.

 

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I wish to earn an honours degree in economics and follow it up with an MBA so that I can find a job in a foreign bank.

I have PCM and economics as subjects. I wish to earn an honours degree in economics and follow it up with an MBA so that I can find a job in a foreign bank. But will I get admission to the economics or commerce stream at the degree level since I am not a commerce student? What are the other career options I could consider after obtaining a degree in economics and MBA? Would you recommend any post-graduate study other than MBA?

Science students do take up commerce and economics after class XII. Depending upon the university, a few percentage of marks are slashed from a science student’s mark sheet to bring him on par with students from the other disciplines.

In terms of subject options after class XII, science students are at an advantage because all the three streams – science, commerce and arts – are open to them. Job options after economics and MBA range from academics and research to joining the corporate world. Or as you are saying, you can work in a bank. It will depend on the kind of work atmosphere you like to work in, your interests and aptitude. Whether you like planning, whether you like statistical work or research work, or whether you like the hurly-burly of a corporate office, it will help you zero in on your career. You can even appear for the civil services examinations after graduating in economics.

As regards MBA and post-graduation, you should do a post-graduation if you are academically oriented and want to take up a career in academics or research. But if that is not the case, and if you want to join a foreign bank, an MBA would be a better-option.

 

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Playing police

I am a student of class VIII. I want to know the rules for becoming a police officer. Do they induct police officers because they are strong? Or do they have to clear a test of intelligence?

Police officers are part of the Indian Police Service (IPS). They should have cleared the Union Public Civil Services exam, the interview and fulfilled the physical fitness requirements. States  recruit police officers for provincial civil services through a similar exam.

 

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I am a class XI student. Should I opt for law after XII or obtain a bachelor’s degree before joining an LLB programme?

Joining a BA (LLB) course straight after XII, say at the National Law School of India University, Bangalore, will give you a distinct advantage over a student who joins a law course after doing graduation in any other subjects. You will be part of a focussed programme. At the end of the five-year programme, you will be well-qualified to join a law firm, corporate organisation or an advocate.

 

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Investigating options

I am a student of class X. I am going to join humanities in class XI. I wanted to know whether it is necessary to have journalism as a subject in college if I want to become a journalist. Also, if I join a particular media, can I hop from one media to other, or will I be stuck with one media?

It is not necessary to join a degree course in journalism. In fact, people from as diverse backgrounds as Hindi, English, Sanskrit, history, economics, physics and chemistry join journalism. Study of a liberal arts or science subject broadens their perspective. If you want to hone your skills, you can do a PG diploma in print or electronic media after graduation.

Again, journalists are known to switch from print to electronic media. The other way round is also possible, provided you write well.

 

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I am a second year BE (Electronics and Communication) student. Please tell me what is the selection procedure to join the Indian army, and also when and where to apply.

Students who have not applied for the NDA route to army straight after class XII, can apply for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam, the eligibility for which is graduation. CDS examination is conducted by the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) and followedby a Staff Selection Board (SSB) interview. This mode is for graduates or equivalently qualified candidates between 19 to 24 years of age.

January and July are the entry months. In fact, for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Naval Academy and Air Force Academy (the batch commencing in January 2005) and the Officers Training Academy (the batch commencing in April 2005), the admission announcement has been made in leading newspapers dated September 13. This mean that you should start looking for the related advertisements in leading dailies and the Employment News about 15 months in advance. A written examination is conducted, and based on your performance and on the order of preferences you have listed, you will be allotted a seat in any one of the following institutes:

  •  Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. An 18-month course. There are 150 vacancies out of which 32 are reserved for NCC ‘C’ certificate (army wing) holders.
  •  Naval Academy, Goa: There are 20 seats out of which six are reserved for NCC ‘C’ certificate (naval wing) holders.
  •  Air Force Station, Begumpet, Hyderabad.
  •  Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai. There are 235 seats. This is for short services commission officers.

You should specify, in order of preference, the services for which you wish to be considered. Indicate as many preferences as you wish, so that you can be assigned a service depending upon your rank in the merit list. For the Air Force and Navy, a science background- B.Sc. (Physics), B.Sc. (Maths) or BE is a must. The first stage of selection is based on objective-type written exam.

The questions test your mathematical ability, general awareness and English. Once you clear the written test, you will go through an SSB interview that will test your aptitude for the army.

Since you are an engineering branch of the Army, Navy or the Air Force. In fact the Air Force looks for people with electronics background for recruitment to aeronautical engineering. Recruitment is done through the University Entry Scheme and announcements are carried in leading newspapers and the Employment News.

 

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Bridging distances

I am a student of class XII. Because of certain household constraints I know I won’t be able to attend college after class XII. I will have to contribute to the family income at the earliest. But since I am keen to pursue graduation, I want to join a correspondence course. Are correspondence courses worthwhile?

Ideally, you should join a regular course. A college of repute will make a big difference to your CV. But if you are simply unable to join a regular course, then at least join a distance education programme of repute like IGNOU. Harp on the work experience that you gain in the next three or four years as a positive factor, something that has contributed to you learning. Don’t be apologetic about not being able to join a regular programme. Also, don’t stop your learning process after graduation. You can gain a post-graduate degree too. And as your family circumstances improve, you can take a break from studies and join a reputed programme like MBA or MCA, depending upon your field.

 

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For art’s sake

 

My niece is in her final year of fine arts at Stella Maris, Chennai. Her passion is doodling. What are her career options? What can she further do academically? And which are the institutions in India that offer courses in such areas?

My daughter is a student of ICSE board. She is interested in craftwork and has done a craft course. Her extra-curricular activities included decoupage, – , flower making, cards and Chinese ceramics. What should she take up at +2 level? What are the options available, and the institutions for the same? She is an all-rounder and tops in all subjects. But her passion is crafts. She is always with scissors and paper. What is NID and what does it offer?

First, about your niece. Since your niece is already a student of fine arts, she is already in the right place. Doodling might be her passion, but as a fine arts student she would be having a larger career goal. She can do a masters in fine arts, and then proceed to do a PhD in a related field. She can take up the teaching profession and teach at the school or college level. She can even hold exhibitions of her paintings, or else she could be an art curator and join a big museum.

As regards your daughter, she should take up arts to pursue her interest in crafts. She can join a college that offers bachelor of fine arts thereafter. or else, she can pursue graduation in any other subject and pursue in a polytechnic.

 

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Tyrannical parents

My parents beat me up if I talk to anyone on phone or if I go out with friends. They don’t give me any pocket money. They are always asking me, whom do I talk to in school. I don’t know what to do. Please help me. At times I feel like running away from home or joining a hostel. Why do we have so many restrictions at this stage when earlier I could go anywhere without any problem?

One of the better ways to handle this is to directly talk to your mother or father (towards whom you feel more comfortable and uninhibited) and express your feelings frankly to them. Find out the reasons for their allowing you the needed freedom. Assure them that you will abide by what they say and will spend the pocket money only on the items they permit. It is in you on convince them that you will not go astray or get into my problems. With the kind of atmosphere these days, parents naturally worry a lot for their daughter lest anyone hurts her. Running away from home is not a solution, but if you want and if they permit, you can definitely move into a hostel.

Anything you do, should be able to make your parents feel confident that you will not be hurt but will be safe. They have to trust you and your ability to look after yourself.

 

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Friends or foes

My friends come to me only when they have some work. Otherwise they don’t. But since I like making friends, I welcome them in spite of this. Is it right?

Since you like having friends, your approach and attitude are fine as you welcome them. However, do not feel negative about them as it would lead to disappointment and frustration within you and accordingly your behaviour towards your friends will also change to negative. Always keep an open mind and do not go with the pre-conceived notion that your friends come to you only when they have some work with you. Such thoughts will undermine all friendships. A friendship must have considerable freedom and a lot of give and take on both sides. Negative thinking from either you or the other person will not lead to a happy or healthy friendship.

 

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Worrisome mom

My mother is always telling me that she is going to die. How can I relieve her of this fear? She is also complaining that the money my father gives to her is not sufficient for her to live properly. How can I help her?

One way to tell your mother is to reassure her that you are all with her and that she need not worry about anything. A person dies only when the time to die comes. Worrying about death and fearing it would only make her feel miserable. A coward dies a thousand deaths while a brave person dies just once. Tell her these and make her face death bravely. Also just check what is it about death that she is so scared about. Once she faces her fears clearly and in a descriptive way, her fears will reduce considerably.

As for her relationship with your father she has to handle it entirely on her own. You cannot take up sides. Help her to take courage in her hands and ask her husband to give her more money, etc. It is for help to do this and I think you must help her to face her husband and her problems with him without fear and worry.

 

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Exam pangs

I am a student of class X. I am always getting 6th or 7th rank. Though I aim higher, during exam time I just don’t feel like studying. I am very scared of not scoring high in class X examination. Please guide me.

You seem to be quite bright and intelligent as you are getting 6th or 7th rank. Continue working methodically and systematically, do your practice exercises the way you have been doing all along. Then you need to only revise at the time of exams.

But all this you should do without getting anxious that you may score lower than your expectations. It is important to remember that when we get anxious our efficiency level goes down considerably as anxiety and fears consume a lot of energy and very little is left for performance. So relax and take deep breaths whenever you feel anxious or scared and restart your work and go ahead methodically. This is one of the best ways of handling worries and anxiety about exams and not doing well in them.

 

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Mood swings

I am a student of class XII. There are days when I am very depressed and feel that nothing can go right. There is no particular reason for this. I want to know how to overcome depression. I also want to know why one trends to have an unknown fear of others while in school, while travelling in a bus or walking in a public place?

Occasional depression and swings in mood are but quite common as we go through disappointments, frustrations, etc. You can get over depression if you get to the root causes for it. Once you know the cause, you can get rid of the problem effectively. You appear to be studying in Delhi. Almost every school in the city has a counsellor who can help you to overcome depression.

 

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Dancing blues

I want to be a choreographer. I am brilliant at dancing but my parents will never allow it. I think one should join a field of his/her choice. Why don’t parents understand this?

You are right that you should be allowed to join the field of your choice. There are two ways of handling this: Take up choreography as your hobby while continuing to pursue the field your parents want you to take up as you wouldn’t want to hurt them or be in conflict with them, or talk to your parents frankly about your liking for choreography, get trained in the art from a well reputed institution and then take up choreography as your field of choice. Once your parents know what is involved and how much you hanker for it, they would not mind your choice. But you should be very clear about what you want.

 

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How can I control my daydreaming and stop thinking of idiotic stuff in free time?

 

Getting rid of thoughts that you do not like is entirely in your hands. Your mind is yours and you alone are master of it. If you decide not to allow the thoughts to bother you, only you can stop them. You can say ‘stop’ to yourself the moment the thoughts appear, and then for a while divert your attention to something you enjoy. In the beginning you may be able to stop the thoughts for a while but as you practice this technique you can get rid of them for longer periods and then permanently. Always remember that the mind is yours and you can stop the thoughts you don’t want the mind to ponder.

As for daydreaming, it is a kind of wish fulfilment. Many of our desires and wishes remain unfulfilled and in many cases we feel disappointed when something we want does not materialise. These unfulfilled desires at times appear in our daydreams. There is nothing wrong if you have an occasional short duration daydream. But if you do want to stop it, as I said earlier, it is in your hands to stop it by deliberately diverting your attention to something more meaningful and interesting.

 

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Armed to succeed

 

I am a student of ICSE Board, studying in class XI. I am keen to join the Indian Army. I have heard that the NDA exam is based on the CBSE syllabus. Is it advisable to change the board and switch over to a school affiliated to CBSE Board?

Though NDA is largely based on CBSE patter – in fact most competitive exams in the country after class XII are based on the CBSE pattern – yet the quality of education in ICSE Board is such that you shouldn’t have a cause for regret. As a student of ICSE Board, your fundamentals would be quite strong and you would not have much problem grasping the CBSE course. As it is, there are a few coaching institutes within Delhi and in other cities that prepare students for the NDA admission. By joining a reputed institute, you will have a good grasp of the NDA test pattern.

 

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Air-borne career

 

My subjects in school are accountancy, economics, commerce and English. I want to be an air hostess. Are these subjects fine for the job, or should I opt for any other subject? What qualifications do I need? I am a science student. I wish to become an air hostess after school. Does the training begin at graduation level? Please tell me about the exact procedure and relevant courses.

While Air India specifies that candidates should have done a diploma course in hotel management and catering from a recognized institute, there are foreign airlines like KLM and Lufthansa which are known to have employed air hostesses who have graduated in English! What is required is poise, confidence, a pleasing personality and good communication skills.

Normally, once an airhostess has joined an airline, she undergoes training on aspects of flight safety (very few people know that is an important part of her duties), aviation terminology, travel regulations, passenger handling, cuisine, etc.  Speech and voice training and grooming are also part of the course. However, there are a number of institutes that are imparting training to aspiring air hostesses. Among the leading institutes are:

  1.  Air Hostess Academy (AHA), C-33, 2nd Floor, Amar Colony Market,   Lajpat Nagar-IV, New Delhi
  2.  Flyers Inc, 33, Jangpura Road, New Delhi 110014
  3.  Pacific Airways, Pocket GH-6/35, Paschim Vihar, New Delhi 110087
  4. Free Bird Aviation & Management Services, TC-41/2454 Mancaud, Thiruvananthapuram-9 Kerala.

Most of these institutes impart training right after class XII.

 

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Fertile minds

 

I am a non-medical student studying in class XI in a public school. I wish to become a director of agriculture. I want to take admission in Punjab University (LDH). Could you tell me the exact procedure?

Our best wishes are with you in your career dream. However, your journey will have to begin with a graduation in agriculture sciences. Punjab Agricultural University is a state university offering a number of courses like B.Sc. Agri. (Hons.) of four years’ duration, bachelor of veterinary science and animal husbandry of five years, and B.Sc. (Hons.) Home Science 4-year (for girls only). However, it’s the first course that would interest you. For admission to Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, one should have done 10+2 or equivalent in science/agriculture with physics, chemistry and mathematics/ biology/agriculture with at least 50% marks in aggregate. Admission is done on the basis of Common Admission Test, held sometime in June.

 

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Creative corridors

                                                                                                I am a student of class XII and want to pursue a career in animation. I want to know about the entrance procedure of NID, Ahmadabad. Please give me guidance about how to prepare for the examination.

In the entrance test you will be asked to do things that will test your sense of color, your understanding of proportion , and your ability to visualize. Say, you might be asked to make a color paper collage. You might be asked to draw an object, or you might be asked to visualize something fifty years from now. You should also start maintain a portfolio: preserve properly whatever you draw or make; get in the habit of observing: critically viewing ads, movies, photographs or any other art object. This understanding will also be put to test.

 

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I am a 13-year old girl studying in class VII. I am interested in working with birds. What are the courses that I can do?

It is heartening to learn a student of your age is so focused at this age. Ornithology (study of birds) is more or less ignored in India. There’s hardly any institute that comes to mind when one talks of ornithology is the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology at Anaikatty, 24 kms from Coimbatore. The institute is named after the legendary Salim Ali who did a scientific study of birds and published a number of books. SACON has maintained a natural habitat in its 55 acres of land. Besides, there is a laboratory, library and a hostel for housing a few students.

But then, study of birds can be pursued even in your capacity as an ecologist, wildlife biologist or as an expert in forest management. As it is, even if you are focused on study of birds, you will first have to do a graduation in a life sciences subject, preferably zoology. But there are a number of foreign universities offering this course, albeit at the post-graduate level. A detailed list of institutes offering ornithology is available in the following URL:

http://www.ummz.1sa.umich.edu/birds/Gradwinweb.html

in fact, there is a website devoted exclusively to ornithology: www.ornithology.com and you can find out more about the relevant institutes worldwide on that site.

 

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Career in Merchant Navy

My son is doing First Year Junior Science and plans to join merchant navy. Please tell me whether one can joint merchant navy after B.Sc.?  Will it have any bearing on his prospectus? When and how to apply for merchant navy? How long is the training period? Will he be disqualified if he wear glasses?

The Shipping Corporation of India (a public sector undertaking), the Great Eastern Shipping Company, Essar Shipping Company and Chowgule Steamships Ltd are among the biggest shipping companies in India.

A merchant vessel has the following four departments of work: the crew, officers, engineers and catering.

The captain, or the chief-in-command, is responsible for the entire ship. He has to look into the details about the arrival and departure from the port, port papers, immigration, and messages. The safety of the ship is his responsibility. The second in command is the chief officer who has a number of tasks like maintenance, loading and unloading and training of cadets. Next to him is the second officer, who is responsible for navigation equipment, and who plots the course of the ship and the distance from one destination to the other. He is also involved in loading and unloading, and is responsible for hospital and medicines. Next come the third officers, who take care of safety equipment, loading and discharging, as per the orders of the chief officer. The entry point is that of cadets.

The crew has chief officer, the bosun, the able seaman (AS) and ordinary seaman (OS). An OS has to learn navigation, as well as look after the maintenance of the ship. Some shipping companies have a lower rung, that is first and second seaman below the OS. Next comes the Able Seaman (AS) who is involved in the control of steering and maintenance of the ship. Higher up on the ladder is the Bosun, to whom OS and AS report. He is turn gets his orders from the chief officer. The crew also has a motorman, who is in charge of engine room maintenance and looks out for oil leakage, machinery, error, etc.

There’s the department of engineers, consisting of the chief engineer and fourth engineer, who are there to check and maintain all the machinery. There are also staffers like stewards to take care of the cooking for the entire ship and cleaning the rooms and the work area.

While roles are clearly defined in the various departments, there is continuous activity on the vessel, and one shift takes over the baton from the earlier shift. There’s activity at 12.00 p.m. and there’ activity at 4.00 a.m. So the ship never sleeps.

Salaries are very lucrative in the merchant navy. For example, an ordinary seaman earns Rs 25,000 to 30,000 per month, a fourth engineer draws Rs 40,000 to Rs 60,000 per month, a chief officer earns about 1.25 lakh, and the captain, Rs 2 lakh to 3 lakh. But then, it’s a hard life too. There may be occasions when the sea gets too dangerous. Those are the moments when you would have to remain calm and think well, despite any duress. A crisis situation would also require the navigators to handle the steering manually. The engineers would have to fix any major systems’ failure so that the vessel can at least reach the nearest port.

TS Chanakya, Navi Mumbai, MERI, Kolkata and LBS College of Advanced Maritime Studies and Research are the leading institutes in India for a comprehensive range of courses for merchant navy personnel. Most of these courses are open to candidates who have done their 10+2 and the duration is of three years for some courses, and four years for others. Candidates should be physically fit for the arduous life of the sea and candidates of nautical science should also have a normal vision. Candidates of marine engineering are, however, allowed glasses of plus or minus 2.5.

Since your son has already joined a B.Sc. course and cannot join a nautical science course now, here’s a piece of information that will cheer him up. The Shipping Corporation of India recruits Nautical Officer Cadets, for which science graduates with physics and mathematics are also considered. They have to undergo a three-stage training: a pre-sea training of four months, an on-board training of about two years, and then a post-sea education course. This training is expensive, however. The pre-sea training costs about Rs 85,000 the post-sea education, about Rs 1.2 lakh.

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The nautical ladder

 

I am student of science in class XII and want to know about merchant navy in detail : the entrance process, training programmes, fees and other expenses, salary and perks, functional set up of merchant navy, job profiles, etc.

The Shipping Corporation of India (a public sector undertaking), the Great Eastern Shipping Company, Essar Shipping Company and Chowgule Steamships Ltd are among the biggest shipping companies in India.

A merchant vessel has the following four departments of work: the crew, officers, engineers and catering.

The captain, or the chief-in-command, is responsible for the entire ship. He has to look into the details about the arrival and departure from the port, port papers, immigration, and messages. The safety of the ship is his responsibility. The second in command is the chief officer who has a number of tasks like maintenance, loading and unloading and training of cadets. Next to him is the second officer, who is responsible for navigation equipment, and who plots the course of the ship and the distance from one destination to the other. He is also involved in loading and unloading, and is responsible for hospital and medicines. Next come the third officers, who take care of safety equipment, loading and discharging, as per the orders of the chief officer. The entry point is that of cadets.

The crew has chief officer, the bosun, the able seaman (AS) and ordinary seaman (OS). An OS has to learn navigation, as well as look after the maintenance of the ship. Some shipping companies have a lower rung, that is first and second seaman below the OS. Next comes the Able Seaman (AS) who is involved in the control of steering and maintenance of the ship. Higher up on the ladder is the Bosun, to whom OS and AS report. He is turn gets his orders from the chief officer. The crew also has a motorman, who is in charge of engine room maintenance and looks out for oil leakage, machinery, error, etc.

There’s the department of engineers, consisting of the chief engineer and fourth engineer, who are there to check and maintain all the machinery. There are also staffers like stewards to take care of the cooking for the entire ship and cleaning the rooms and the work area.

While roles are clearly defined in the various departments, there is continuous activity on the vessel, and one shift takes over the baton from the earlier shift. There’s activity at 12.00 p.m. and there’ activity at 4.00 a.m. So the ship never sleeps.

Salaries are very lucrative in the merchant navy. For example, an ordinary seaman earns Rs 25,000 to 30,000 per month, a fourth engineer draws Rs 40,000 to Rs 60,000 per month, a chief officer earns about 1.25 lakh, and the captain, Rs 2 lakh to 3 lakh. But then, it’s a hard life too. There may be occasions when the sea gets too dangerous. Those are the moments when you would have to remain calm and think well, despite any duress. A crisis situation would also require the navigators to handle the steering manually. The engineers would have to fix any major systems’ failure so that the vessel can at least reach the nearest port.

TS Chanakya, Navi Mumbai, MERI, Kolkata and LBS College of Advanced Maritime Studies and Research are the leading institutes in India for a comprehensive range of courses for merchant navy personnel. Most of these courses are open to candidates who have done their 10+2 and the duration is of three years for some courses, and four years for others. Candidates should be physically fit for the arduous life of the sea and candidates of nautical science should also have a normal vision. Candidates of marine engineering are, however, allowed glasses of plus or minus 2.5.

Since your son has already joined a B.Sc. course and cannot join a nautical science course now, here’s a piece of information that will cheer him up. The Shipping Corporation of India recruits Nautical Officer Cadets, for which science graduates with physics and mathematics are also considered. They have to undergo a three-stage training: a pre-sea training of four months, an on-board training of about two years, and then a post-sea education course. This training is expensive, however. The pre-sea training costs about Rs 85,000 the post-sea education, about Rs 1.2 lakh.

 

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I am a final-year student of BA (economics). What is the qualification and procedure for placement of women in the Indian Navy logistic cadre?

 

The Indian Navy recruits men and women in the age group of 19 ½ to 25 years for its logistics cadre. Those keen to join the cadre should have done BA (economics) II Div, B.Com IInd Div or graduation in any subject with a degree/diploma in materials/financial management. The candidates are recruited through direct entry scheme, announcement of which is made in the Employment News, as also regional newspapers, twice a year, depending on the vacancies.

 

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Beauty is but skin-deep

 

I have just completed my graduation and hope to join my father’s business, alongside doing a masters’ course by correspondence. However, there is one thing about myself that totally shatters my confidence. I am troubled by my ugliness. I am hopelessly ugly. I have taken after my father’s family, so I am short and dark, with terrible features. When I look at my friends, I feel very jealous of them. I also feel angry with my parents for having given me such awful features. I fear that I will never get a good life partner because I am so ugly.

In this world, we have both good and not-so-good looking individuals and not much can be done to alter their basic appearance. Yet, there are parlours and salons that help you learn how to dress better and look smarter. I am sure that if you attend such a course for a few days you would feel more confident about your appearance. However, inner beauty, confidence and a fine character can make up for your uncomplimentary looks. Instead of thinking of your looks, try to think about your best qualities, character and achievements. Always think positive. If you start liking yourself for what you have, I am sure many of your difficulties will disappear and you will be able to achieve your goals.

 

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Watch that mouth

 

I am becoming very foul mouthed. Though I don’t intend to hurt people, I do end up annoying them. My friends have started avoiding me. I even shocked my mother the other day by abusing her. How do I control my habit?

Control is in your hands. Remember it is your mind and you alone are responsible for your actions. If you decide not to abuse anyone, you will not. Whenever you get the urge to abuse, count backwards from 10 to 1 and then react to the situation. This small interval when you count from 10 to 1 will give you ample time to re-word your response and reaction.

Remember the time when you never used to be foul mouthed. That means you can still continue to talk to people without being abusive.

 

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Lying is not fun

 

Whenever I go to a party with friends, I come home and cook up a story. But my parents don’t believe a word of it. Now, my brother tells the same tales, they believe him. This infuriates me. Why do they believe the tales of one son and not the other? I feel very small when they treat me like this.

Remember you will gain respect and regard when you speak the truth with others whether they are your parents, friends or relatives. Truth always makes others feel good about you. Going for parties is not wrong but going for them without your parents’ consent and later lying to them not just makes you feel bad but also makes you think they are not on your side or appreciating you. With regard to your parents, you can always directly ask them why they believe your brother and not you. Their reply will enlighten you regarding their behavior.

 

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Being bullied

 

I get bullied very easily. Nowadays, I have stopped talking to a good friend of mine because of pressure from another friend. I am feeling very bad about cutting off from this good friend. But if I start talking to her, my other friend will be very upset. How do I keep both the friends happy at the same time? I do not want to antagonize either of the two.

You are highly susceptible and don’t have confidence in your own decisions. This tendency to cling to someone to get his or her favor is an indication of lack of confidence. In this case that you have cried, all you have to do is start talking with your friend even if the first friend gets a little disappointed. That is, if you want to talk to her, do so. When you do things you want and what you think is right, others will begin to respect you for the same. But if you succumb to pressure from others to do things their way you will never be happy within. You can keep both your friends happy by beginning to talk with your friend and bringing her over to the other friend also. All three of you, I am sure, have lots in common, which you can share.

 

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Shyness

 

I am a student of class IX. My problem is shyness. I am not able to give an answer even if I know it. I also suffer from stage fright. I am not bold and courageous. My father insists that I participate in competitions. I feel that I will not be able to speak on the stage. Please help me. I feel miserable that I will not succeed in life if I do not overcome my shyness.

Since you are aware that you are shy and have stage fright, you should also understand that this shyness would disappear if you have confidence in yourself. The fear that may fail when you are on the stage makes you afraid of the stage. Similarly the fear that you may not come up to others’ expectations and the anxiety that others would think negatively of you makes you shy. This can be overcome if you start thinking positively and take up such tasks, which you can complete successfully. If someone gives you work, complete it as well as you can and take pride in what you have achieved. Even complex tasks can be successfully accomplished if you spend time thinking how best you can complete it. Think of the different ways in which you can solve the problem and choose the best out of them. This way you will gain confidence in yourself and the fear of having to bear criticism will also disappear. You can thus overcome your shyness. In addition you can do breathing exercises for about three or four minutes just before you take up a task or just before going on stage for some programme.

 

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I am in XII. I want to be a good English news reader. Kindly guide.

I am a student of class XII. I want to be a good English newsreader. For this purpose I want to know which exam do I have to pass. I have been reading English news on the stage everyday in school. I have also won a number of prizes for being the best newsreader. I hope that you will help me fulfil my ambition.

You have made the right beginning by reading English news on a regular basis in your school. But you don’t have to appear for any exam to be a reader. News channels have a diction test, wherein they test your fluency, speed, diction and presentability. So hone all these aspects.

Besides diction, speed and fluency, certain other skills also matter: how good are you at interviewing people (for as you would have seen on news channels, news readers are also supposed to interview guests in the studio during the news hour); how good is your knowledge of happenings around the world and whether you keep abreast of happenings; and also how well do you handle difficult situations, like having to report the meagre facts again and again for two hours before more footage arrives, say in the Akshardham attack last year, or Indian Airlines hijack episode in 1999.

 

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The general perception is that civil services and media are the domain of humanities, science, medical and engineering students. Commerce students do not opt for these careers.

No, not any longer. There has been a change in the trend. Commerce student can take up anything now. In fact many of my students have gone for mass communication. Even in civil services, you will find good number of commerce students.

In fact, in lighter vein, when parents come to me for advice, as to what their children should study, I ask them in return, what they want their child to be: do they want him to be a film actor, or a politician, a journalist, a professor, a businessman or chairperson of a company. And I add, whatever career choice the child makes, he should equip himself to get admission to SRCC. Because I can name the best actors, best politicians, best police officers who have graduated from here. So name a field, and we have churned out the best in that field.

If the students are good, they can excel in any area. Now many doors are open, except that a commerce student cannot be a professor of physics or an engineer or a doctor. Barring that, you can be anything.

 

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Where does commerce figure today in the scheme of things of a career-oriented student? What kind of avenues and openings can commerce per se offer to those who pursue it?

I think it figures very prominently because it opens up many doors for those who want to make a good career. A lot of students give priority to commerce – this was not so earlier.

There are openings for commerce students in the traditional sense. They can go for CA, ICWA, for company secretaryship, or related areas in accounting and finance. If you want to do MBA, CA, CS or ICWA, you don’t necessarily have to be a B.Com. Even a BSc student can go for CA or MBA. The only difference is that commerce students or commerce pass-outs have an advantage over non-commerce students in case of courses like CA, CS or MBA, because some of the papers they have to study are taught at B.Com Hons level.

 

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My exams are three months away and I am already too bored of studies. What should I do?

My exams are three months away and I am already too bored of studies. I just don’t feel like picking up books now. At the rate I am going, I feel I will develop antipathy to anything that is related to academics.

Anything overdone brings this kind of reaction. Don’t study all the time take a break after two or three hours of continuous reading.

Go for a cup of tea or a glass of juice, an ice cream or whatever you like. Get back to your studies after a 20-30 minutes break, restart. You will feel good and not bored. After studying throughout the day go for jogging or brisk walk, talk to friends, joke around. Plan your studies systematically.

Clear your doubts the moment they arise and then proceed to the next, higher level. Do assignments and questions in an organised manner.

 

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My mother is too religious. She has started imposing her faith on us, too. What should I do?

 

My mother is too religious. Her religiosity is only increasing by the day. It’s fine as long as she does not impose it on others. But lately she has started imposing her faith on us, too. I don’t want to hurt her religious feelings but end up saying something against her finicky ways about pooja-paath. This makes her furious and she says that I will suffer for the bad words I say about religion. I do not know how to make her see reason. Can you?

Religiosity is something which is deeply set within a person, and in some cases it borders on fanaticism. One method, which usually works in such cases is not to attack the religiosity of your mother but to sway along with it to the extent possible without using any harsh words about religion.

Another way is not to do all those religious rituals if you don’t believe in them. You can be away from home so that you avoid saying anything bad. The third way to handle this problem is to frankly tell your feelings to your mother in an affectionate manner so that you are not against anything religious. But everything has to be done within a limit.

Find out objectively and factually what your mother expects. See if it can be managed without making you feel uncomfortable. Analyse why you don’t to do what she wants you to do. Is it because it is time-consuming or is there any other reason for it. Find out if you can put your views across to her without making her upset.

If you do things in a systematic manner, I am sure your mother will not impose anything on you. Have faith in yourself and in your mother and look at things factually, objectively and not emotionally.

 

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I have a good height and figure, and I have always wanted to be a model. But my parents are strictly against it. What do I do?

I have a good height and figure, and I have always wanted to be a model. But my parents are strictly against it. We have discussed this many times. They have said it clearly that I will have to leave them if I insist on this career choice. I love them, yet I cannot give up my passion. What do I do?

As you love your parents, you must also realise that your parents too love you. If you sit down and talk it over with them, you will know their fears and apprehensions. This way you will know if you can assure them about how you will ward off problems, which according to your parents, you might face. Once this is done, I am sure your parents will agree to your chosen profession. It is up to you to talk to them and to help them understand how you can take care of yourself, and in this way allay their fears.

 

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I think my parents are heading for a divorce. I am facing immense emotional trauma and am unable to study or do anything.

I think my parents are heading for a divorce. They don’t seem to be in love. They are always fighting, talking ill of each other to relatives and friends. I am facing immense emotional trauma and am unable to study or do anything. Most of the times I hate coming back home

Your emotional trauma is understandable. One way to tackle this is to talk it over with either of your parents, who is closer to you and with whom you fee comfortable. You can put across to either of them your fears and apprehensions and your inability to concentrate on your studies due to their quarrels. Since your parents would be concerned about your performance in examinations, if you request them to postpone arguing until you complete your examinations, they may agree to do so. This itself will give them time to contemplate about the issues on which they seem to have considerable conflict. And this may perhaps make them consider postponing separation.

In our life there are many things that happen which we don’t want. But when it does happen, it is important to face it with courage and to try see how one can achieve one’s goals without being affected by events and happenings. In your case you fear that the conflict between your parents may end in divorce. It may not necessarily end so, because many people do have conflicts and arguments but stay on as they do not want to break the family and like to stay together for the sake of their children.

 

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I know that we are not rich and I cannot spend like my friends, but I feel bad because of constraints. Please help me.

 

I am an 18-years-old college student. My problem is that my friends go out for parties and spend a lot of money in eating out in restaurants etc, whereas my parents do not give me enough pocket money for freaking out. I am frustrated because I am unable to do what my friends do. I know that we are not rich and I cannot spend like my friends, but I feel bad that the good years of my life are being wasted because of constraints. Please help me.

I can understand your feelings. I also find that you are very perceptive and understanding of your dilemma. Having secured admission in a good college for higher education, you should feel proud of your achievements. I am sure you are also aware how crucial the next few years will be in building your future.

Try to look at the positive things of life. Never allow yourself to feel inferior to your friends just because you are unable to spend like them. Imagine if you do well and become a successful manager, an IT professional, an IAS officer or any dream designation that you aspire for, how much your friends would admire your achievements. Once you set a goal for yourself you will also be able to divert your mind from the artificial pleasures of your friends.

Hence, to get over these disappointments, the best thing you can do is to think positively, set a goal for yourself, work towards the goal systematically and find happiness in spending time with your parents, sister or brother and others and those who think high and have a clear goal for themselves.

 

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Career in the Merchant Navy

I am a PCM student of class XII. I want to join the merchant navy. Apart from the two merchant navy colleges in which admission is done through IIT screening, please tell me about the other colleges. Please provide information on the admission procedures and fee structures of these colleges.

Well, MERI and TS Chanakya are the best places to be if you want to join the merchant navy. But if you want to avoid the IIT-JEE, there are a few other options. The academy of Maritime Education and Training, Kanathur, Tamil Nadu, offers a number of courses. Among them in BSc Nautical Science, approved by the Director General of Shipping, Ministry of Shipping, Government of India. It is offered in collaboration with Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi. You should have done 10+2 with PCM. Entry is on the basis of a written test and interview, sometime in June. The fee structure is high – Rs 75,000 per semester for a six semester (three-year course). The same institute also offers a four-year BE programme in marine engineering. For this, you should have cleared class XII with, at least, 60 percent marks in PCM group. The fee structure for this course too is similar. Address: AMET Campus, 135, East Coast Road, Kanathur – 603112, India Email: amet@vsnl.com

Then, there is Chidambaram Institute of Maritime Academy, that offers two courses: graduate marine engineering (GME) and diploma marine engineering (DME). The former will require you to be a BE (mechanical) or BE (naval architecture); BTech. (mechanical or naval architecture) or BSc mechanical. No other stream of engineering will be considered.

The DME course will require you to be a diploma-holder in mechanical/marine/ship building/naval architecture or electrical engineering from an institute approved by AICTE. The address is: CMET, 46, Moore Street, Chennai-600 001; cmet2@vsnl.com

The Sea Horse Academy, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh also provides deck cadet officer pre-sea training. However, admission is done directly by the academy for sponsored candidate. The address is: Sea Horse Academy of Merchant Navy, Sambamurthy Street, Ramaraopet, Kakinada – 533 004, Andhra Pradesh.

 

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Food for thought

I am a student of class XI studying physics, chemistry, maths and biology. I really enjoy reading about health and diet issues. To become a nutrition expert, is it necessary to be a doctor? I am not sure if i could get admission to a medical college. Please guide me.

No, it is not necessary to be a doctor to be a nutrition expert. In fact, dietetics and nutrition as modules are offered at B.Sc. level and specialisation programmes at M.Sc. level in many universities, including some agriculture universities. Avinashlingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, is one of the most reputed places to study home science. In Delhi, Lady Irwin College offers BSc and MSc courses in home science. You will be eligible for admission to BSc home science programme after class XII, since you are a science student. The universities ask for science in 10+2.

 

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I am a student of history and am very interested in archaeology. Are there jobs for archaeologists that will not require travelling?

How can one become an archaeologist without being on the site? Yes, there are archaeologists who in their capacity as lecturer/professor spend a larger part of the year in colleges or university departments, but even they have to continuously upgrade their knowledge, do research work and visit various sites as part of excavations. Even people associated with various museums are on field visits as part of conservation and restoration projects. So, if you are looking for a career in archaeology, forget the comforts and cosiness of your home.

 

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My daughter writes in a very untidy way. What course of action should I take?

If your daughter is good in all other aspects related to academics, she just needs practice to write neatly. As for drawing or colouring, as long as she is able to do these tasks as required for science, drawing etc., don’t worry. However, if there is any special difficulty, you may have to consult the school psychologist or the counsellor.

 

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Memory Retention

Can you provide us tips for higher retention of what we study for exams? Can a student remember what he/she learnt in November/ December, in the month of March? Is there a way by which he would not forget the formulae?

Definitely a person can remember in the month of March, what he or she learnt in Nov/Dec (that is three or four months earlier). It depends on how well one has understood the concept and the text.

To remember what one has learnt, the only way is to understand clearly what one has studied.

As for remembering a formula etc., apart from understanding the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of it , one must also do the following:

  • Learn the formula first. Look for some cue numbers, signs or words that you can easily associate it with.
  • Then try to recall it without seeing the text.
  • Check for any errors in recalling. Try to correct the errors and once again recall the formula.
  • Write the formula without seeing the text, after a gap.
  • Repeat this exercise again and again.
  • Thus, whatever you have memorized will remain intact in your memory.

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All at sea

I am doing my BE in electronics and power (electrical) from Nagpur. I want to join the merchant navy right after the completion of my course. Please tell me how to join the merchant navy. Are government companies included? When and where should one apply? What is the criterion? Would i have to undergo special training after BE?

Since you are doing electronics and electrical engineering, you could apply for merchant navy straight after your degree. The shipping company that recruits you will then send you for training. In fact, there are special courses at government institutes like T S Chanakya that are specially meant for cadets sponsored by shipping companies. Meanwhile, you must start looking for newspaper advertisements for vacancies in these companies. Also, do an Internet search to assess job prospects in these companies. 

 

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Take-off stage

 

I am student of class XI, studying English, economics, maths, psychological, geography and computers. Earlier, I had opted for the sciences but since I was weak in chemistry I changed my mind. I have come to know that if one has studied physics and maths at the +2 level, one could take the examination for entry to the Air Force Academy. So, if I take up physics as an additional subject instead of psychology, would it help? Can I do a BSc in physics after that? I am really keen to join the Indian Air Force or the Navy. My parents are very supportive and want me to join the defence forces. Will physics and maths help me become a pilot?

First things first. You could have continued in the science stream. If you are good in maths and physics, you could have managed to do fairly well in chemistry with some extra effort. The PCM combination would have enabled you to join a science-based course (barring life sciences) in a university of repute. Most universities demand PCM/PCB for their science courses. For BSc physics, you do need PCM.

As regards the qualifications for entry to the Indian Air Force, yes, you are right. For the graduate entry scheme to the flying branch of the Indian Air Force, only maths and physics are required at 10+2 level. Not only that, you could be a graduate in any stream.

While graduate males could be given permanent commission, graduate women are inducted only on short service commission. They cannot be fighter pilots – they can fly transport aircraft and helicopters.

Besides the flying wing, there are two other wings – technical branch and ground duty branches. Technical branches recruit engineering graduates. But you can again apply for the administrative functions, as for most functions (barring accounts, for which a B.com. is required), a degree in any stream is accepted.

 

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Biochemistry

 

I am a student of class XII. Could you tell me about the career opportunities available for students interested in biochemistry. Can you also mention some good colleges in India that offer courses in biochemistry?

I am a class XII student with PCB. I want to become a biochemist. Please describe the following aspects in detail: courses, scope of work, opportunities, salary etc. I would like to take admission in MAHE. Please tell me about the admission procedure and the courses on offer.

Biochemistry is a branch of science concerned with the chemical processes that occur within living organisms. The subject provides the link between chemistry and living organisms. Numerous processes in medicine, agriculture and forensics require a firm grounding in biochemistry in both development and application.

To pursue a graduate degree in biochemistry, one should have studied physics, chemistry, biology and maths in class XII.

Most universities and certain institutes that offer specialisation courses such as agricultural biochemistry in Indian Agriculture Research Institute New Delhi, agro-chemical in Delhi University etc offer biochemistry.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) offers biochemistry through two routes: after MBBS you could take up biochemistry at the MD level, or else you can study biochemistry in MSc.

MAHE was primarily a health sciences university but now has diversified into communication/ journalism, information technology, ryral studies and distance education. After class XII, you are eligible for the following courses in MAHE: MBBS, BDS, B.Pharm, B.Sc. Biotechnology, BPT (Bachelor in Physiotherapy), and BOT (Bachelor in Occupational Therapy)

You can also take admission to any of these courses after qualifying the entrance examination.

An expert in biochemistry can find employment in the following fields:

  • Medicine and health
  • Drug manufacture and design
  • Agriculture and related industries
  • Forensic science (crime lab science)
  • Professional schools.

Hot careers in biochemistry include proteomics and bioinformatics. One vcan find good jobs in pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies in India and abroad, such as Ciphergen Biosystems, Protometrix, etc.

 

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Exam fever

 

As my board exams are approaching I am becoming paranoid about them. My mind is clogged because of anxiety and I can’t concentrate on studies. Please help me tackle this problem.

It is natural to be anxious about the forthcoming board examinations. The anxiety is mainly due to the fear of not coming up to a certain standard that you and/or your parents have set for you. If you are anxious you will find that your efficiency is not as high as it ought to be because anxiety itself drains out your energy. Also, anxiety confuses you and reduces your concentration level.

The first thing that you have to do is to reduce the anxiety. This you can do by relaxation exercises. Close your eyes and take a comfortable sitting or lying position. Loosen anything that you feel is tight. Stretch yourself into a relaxed state. Keep your body loose and light, and relax all your limbs from head to toes. Take a long deep breath. Inhale and exhale slowly and completely and feel the oxygen going into your brain. Concentrate on breathing, as you breathe in and breathe out. Do this correct breathing in and breathing out technique about five times a day. This won’t take you more than five to 10 minutes. This will relax you considerably.

Remember, your mind is yours and you alone can have control over it. It is entirely in your hands, whether you concentrate or not. If you remember this and do the relaxation exercises as well as deep breathing, I am sure you will be able to concentrate and your anxiety will reduce considerably.

 

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My ward is taking her studies very casually. What should be done?

 

This is an age in which rebellion is common, especially against authoritative figures. Also try to understand the pressure your daughter must be facing, which might perhaps be ten times more than what you might be facing.

At this time, she needs your understanding, support and encouragement. When children don’t get encouragement they generally resort to rebellion. The best way to handle this problem is not to pressurize her to study all this time, depriving her of watching TV or talking on the phone with her friend. Do not keep a tab on her – whether she is studying or doing something else. Make the atmosphere at home as pleasant as you can, so that she also feel relaxed. Find out from her what are her problems with regard to her studies, coaching classes etc. Listen to her problems with an open mind, without criticizing her. Try to genuinely understand and solve her difficulties.

Remember she is also going through a lot of tension and needs a lot of understanding and support from you.

 

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Raring to Go

 

How can I go in journalism right after school?

On an average most newspapers and electronic media companies do not give a job merely on the basis of a journalism degree. Journalists are recruited from as diverse a background as Hindi literature, English literature, economics, political science, sciences, law and even sports, after they have cleared the written test and interview. Therefore, it is better to enhance your knowledge of a variety of subjects. Most of the skills of journalism – reporting, interviewing, writing and editing – are learnt on the job.

At the under-graduate level, journalism programmes are offered by universities like Delhi University, BHU, University of Mumbai, Marathwada University, Aurangabad, Goa University-Bambolin, Ahilyabai Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, Pune University, Punjab University, Chandigarh, Punjabi University, Patiala and Berhampur University.

At the post-graduate level, Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism is reputed for its programmes. Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi, offers an MA in mass communication. Ranchi University offers both MA and diploma programmes in journalism. Indian Institute of Mass Communication, New Delhi, and St Xavier’s Institute of Communications (XIC), Mumbai, are known for their PG diploma courses.

 

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Looks Do Matter

I am not presentable in my looks. How can I go in electronic Media?

Looks do matter on TV, to a certain extent these days. You don’t have to be a beauty queen, but how you present yourself in front of the camera spells your success. Maybe, you are photogenic and work wonders in front of the camera. The best way to start is to give an audition tst for a TV channel. If you clear the audition, you will be called for voiceovers for TV programmes of that particular channel. In these voiceovers, you don’t appear onscreen, but record for a given news item or a documentary. Having stepped into an organization, you can prove your mettle and show an inclination for the area of your interest.

 

Each assignment, however small, is your chance to prove yourself as a conscientious worker and quick learner. Don’t miss any opportunity, even if it is in the form of a tiny news coverage. Face the camera with confidence. There are also openings in the research department and at the desk, where you can excel and gradually take on news reading assignments.

 

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Listen to the heart

 

How should I tell my parents that he is the one I wish to share my life with?

You have rightly said that there is a lot of time before you can decide on settling down and spending a lifetime with this young man. There is no urgency now to broach this subject. Two years is a sufficient time.

Use that time constructively. Concentrate on your work and job and at the end of two years, think the matter over and come to a decision. Right now there is nothing much to do except concentrate on your studies and get a good job and become independent.

 

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During Earthquake Scare

 

I have been wondering about the kind of trauma and problems being faced by a large number of people, especially the youngsters. Could you enlighten me?

It is indeed nice of you to show such care and concern for the quake victims, especially youngsters like you. It is traumatic for children and adults alike. It is agonising because over the years people have toiled and saved money to build up their homes and businesses as well as bring up their children. Young children, teenagers and youth who have been planning to study further or appear for certain examinations, etc., suddenly find that all their efforts and toils have been destroyed in  few seconds. They are shocked, frustrated, angry and totally devastated by these sudden happenings. They don’t believe that this has happened to them. There is total dismay and helplessness at this natural calamity where humans could do nothing.

Initial shock over, most people try to get over their grief at the loss of their near ones and try to look after those who are alive for which they gratefully thank the Almighty. Many suffer from what is called Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. The essence of this is a delayed distress response to a very atypical and significantly traumatic event. They may show both anxiety and depression. Some need very specific psychological help as they have lost not only all their belongings but their nears and dears and thus feel totally lost, helpless and highly distressed.

However most people try to come out of their grief and work towards normalising themselves as they were before the tragic event occurred. What is perhaps most important is to draw oneself out of the tragedy, start organising one’s daily activities and learn to think and behave positively.

 

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How can I ascertain the relative merit of a foreign university?

For every Harvard, there will be 10 universities with doubtful credentials. Students desperate for a foreign tag bare easy preys for them. Before investing your family fortune in a foreign education, ascertain the merit of that university in terms of faculty, facilities and its standing. Although ascertaining this is difficult, this is one exercise that you will have to undertake.

Contact the representative organisations like USEFI (for USA), IDP Australia or DAAD (for Germany) to inquire about the institution that you want to join. In fact, most of the reputed universities and institutes of higher learning are represented by representative organisations.

Career in the Insurance Sector

 

I am a commerce student, now in class XII. I want to make a career in the insurance sector. Where can I get insurance education?

 

The process of deregularisation has benefited the insurance sector immensely and a number of multinational companies have started operations in India. As a result, job opportunities in the insurance have also increased. There is scope to join the insurance stream right after class XII – you can do licentiate after school. But there are some courses which will require graduation.

The Insurance Institute of India is the premier institute in the field of insurance education. It has an expensive network of associated and affiliated institutes throughout India and abroad.

  • Insurance Institute of India

      E-mail: insfeder@bom5.vsnl.net.in

      Course offered: Licentiate, associateship, fellowship.

      Eligibility: 10+2 (for licentiate), licentiate (for associateship), associateship (for fellowship)

  • College of Vocational Studies

      Course offered: BA. 

      Eligibility: 10+2

  • Kurukshetra University

      E-mail: kuk@doe.ernet.in

      Course offered: BA in actuarial science and insurance

      Elgibility: 10+2 

  • Actuarial Society of India

      Course offered: Actuarial science.

      Eligibility: 10+2 (with maths)

Besides courses at the undergraduate level, there are institutes offering courses at PG level too, like Annamalai University, Birla Institute of Management Technology, New Delhi, National Insurance Academy, Pune, and Amity School of Insurance and Actuarial Sciences, Noida.

 

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Dad or bridegroom ?

 

My parents have been divorced for 10 years now but they see each other often. I have been living with my mother ever since. However, my father has now decided to remarry. Now while I know that he is well within his rights to do so, I feel its a sort of cheating.

I agree that there had been a lot of acrimony between my parents earlier on but now I feel they have been able to evolve a nice arrangement in which both meet each other without any bitterness over previous quarrels.

However, if my father marries again, it will disturb this arrangement and then there will be no scope for any relationship between the two. How can I help retain the status quo? I feel very disturbed about the new development.

I can understand your predicament. However for 10 years they have lived separately and you have lived with your mother. You had no problems. Perhaps you feel concerned that your father remarrying you may not be able to meet him as often as you do now. Perhaps you don’t want your father to remarry at all. From your letter I cannot understand the real issue. If you don’t want your father to marry again, you could talk to him and find out the reasons for this action. Then you could express your own feelings and apprehensions about the issue. I am sure he will be able to arrive at a solution. Maybe you can talk to your mother, who may be knowing more about this matter and then come to a decision.

Once you know the facts and the implications, I am sure you will feel at ease because then it will be easier to accept reality with understanding.

 

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Course in Dairy Technology from New Zealand?

 

I want a science student from Ujjain. I want to specialise in dairy technology from New Zealand because I have heard that their courses are reputed. I have plans of setting up a unit close to Ujjain. Can you please give me the details about the course?

It’s good to know about your entrepreneurial zeal. New Zealand is a country where the population of cattle far exceeds the population of human beings. No wonder, dairy technology is a thriving business there. As a natural corollary, the dairy technology courses in this country are also amongst the most reputed and well-developed. Here is a list of universities:

  • Lincoln University,

      Email: macraed@lincoln.ac.nz

      www.lincoln.ac.nz

     Offers a four-year degree programme.

  • Massey University 

      Palmerston North,

      International Students’Office

      Email: B.C. Graham@massey.ac.nz

      www.massey.ac.nz

      Offers a one-year graduate diploma;

      and one-year PG diploma

  • Waikato Polytechnic, Hamilton

      Email: international@twp.ac.nz

      Offers a short-term course.

 

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I can’t stop thinking about what the future holds for me.

The fear of failure is making you edgy. There is no reason why a good student like you will not do well at the class 12 exams. As you have rightly realised, there is still plenty of time before you come face to face with the reality of the exam. It’s time that you told yourself that negative thoughts do hamper performance.

Worrying about the exams and wondering whether or not you will do well is the cause for anxiety and headaches. Since you are hassled you will only think about failures. As a result, you will be distracted and find it difficult to focus on your studies. You will find it difficult to remember all that you read. This in turn will cause more anxiety and panic. This sets off the chain reaction and you begin to forget and feel miserable, all over again. The only way to overcome these headaches is to learn to relax. Try the following things:

  • Relax all the muscles of your body, loosen them up and sit in the most comfortable relaxed position possible in a chair or a reclining one. You may even lie down in bed. During this period don’t think of anything. Empty your mind of any thoughts.
  • Take a deep breath. Inhale slowly until you feel a beautiful pleasant feeling inside your head. This happens when the oxygen goes to the brain. Now slowly exhale while continuing to relax.
  • Repeat this slowly and in the most comfortable way for around five to six times. Do keep your eyes closed during this exercise.
  • Gradually, open your eyes and get back to your sitting posture. You will feel like a new person. Your head will feel light and wonderful. The negative thoughts would have vanished by this time.
  • Now pursue your work at a pace that suits you. You can then take a five-minute break. If you feel tense again, return to the exercise. Otherwise, resume work right after the break.
  • Organise your course and lessons in such a manner that you complete the easy sections before moving onto the difficult areas.
  • Whenever you have a doubt, mark the lesson and keep it aside to seek clarifications from your teacher.
  • During all this, don’t think about next year’s exam. Focus on your work. Do not worry about the results.

         Adopt this strategy with a bit of discipline and very soon you will see your tension and anxiety disappear.

 

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Not Just Glamour

 

I am introvert, How can I go in Hospitality industry?

 

To be successful in this profession you need to have a pleasing personality, outgoing temperament and be adaptable. Being an introvert does not mean that you cannot be successful in this field. There are certain departments like front office, which require goo interpersonal skills. But you can join any function, such as food and beverage, housekeeping and so on. One quality that is very essential is grooming. Leading hotels even have a manual stipulating dress code and hairstyle- down to the type of earrings and bangles that are permitted.

 The test is designed to measure your general mental ability, analytical ability, numerical aptitude and English language ability.

The interview will test how well you can communicate and how pleasant you are in various circumstances.

 

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Is the course curriculum and teaching pattern in foreign universities too tough to follow?

Indian students accustomed to mugging up textbooks and reproducing them in exams will have to gear up for new way of learning. Foreign universities expect students to be analytical in their approach. Instead of just applying formulas and information, they are expected to produce reasoning and theories of their own. Critical thinking and questioning is appreciated, unlike in India, where exact reproduction of classroom lectures fetches you marks.

 

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Why can’t I work more than 20 hours per week while studying abroad?

Representatives of foreign universities have one lament about Indian students: the moment they get out of the flight they announce, ‘I want a job.’ But the purpose of your going abroad is to study, not to earn. Keep it in mind that you cannot cover the cost of your studies by taking up work. That will only partially cover your extra expenses

 

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How can I get a visa if i wish to take admission in foreign universities ?

Even when students have got admission notice from a foreign university, their chances can be marred on account of denial of visa. This is perhaps the toughest stage to clear. The authorities are very strict in issuing visas and try to judge your attention of going abroad, do you have enough finances and are you proficient enough in English to understand the language as it is spoken in that country. Of these three criteria, the toughest part will be trying to convince the authorities that you intend to come back upon the completion of the course.

 

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Can I get a scholarship in foreign universities?

Scholarships are very difficult at the undergraduate level. Most scholarships are given at postgraduate level and these demand excellent academic standards. Britain gives arguably the largest number of scholarships at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These can either cover all costs (tuition, accommodation, airfares and books) or can be partial scholarships. Some scholarships like Rajiv Gandhi Cambridge Bursaries, Chevening Shared Scholarships are for Indian students, while for some international scholarships, Indian students must compete with other international students to get them. The complete list of British scholarships is available with the British Council.

The USA also gives full or partial awards, based on need, merit and potential of the student. Thus, for example, Indiana University of Pennsylvania gives University Tuition Scholarship for undergraduate degree, which is only a partial tuition waiver for the course. The complete list of scholarships is available with the USEFI.

In Australia, it is very difficult to get a scholarship at the undergraduate level. However, a large number of scholarships are available at the postgraduate level, based on merit. The scholarships cover tuition fees. However, a few scholarships do exist for undergraduate students, like Beaufort College Scholarships for Class XII and Curtin University scholarships for undergraduate studies.

 

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Why do most foreign universities ask for a statement of purpose?

 

How else do they judge your personality sitting thousands of miles away? From the mission statement, they can gauge your character strengths, your career goals, and where you want to be in life. This will help them decide whether you would be the right candidate for their university or not. The mission statement can be a small, one-page matter. But it should be impressive. Don’t write it with a carefree attitude. Write everything about yourself. Tell your background, the reasons for choosing the subject and the university and state your career goals.

 

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What are the language requirements? What tests do I have to undertake? …In regards of admission in foreign universities.

 

Students keen on joining foreign universities should prove proficiency in English. American universities require a score of 550 in the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL), which tests the ability to understand American English through a multiple-choice format examination. The test is conducted in March, June, September and December.

British institutions require proof of English proficiency, which can be obtained by taking the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), administered by the British Council, or the TOEFL. Australian Universities ask for an IELTS score of 6 ton 7 or TOEFL score of 550. In Germany, not only is a TOEFL score required, but a German proficiency test, Test DAF, is also required.

Those of you who are keen on joining a graduate programme in engineering, physics, chemistry or maths will have to show Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. The test can be taken three times in a year: April, November and December.

 

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What qualifications, documents and references do I need to get admission in foreign university?

Foreign universities look for outstanding academic record. Students applying for an undergraduate degree programme should have good 10+2 scores. Students keen to join a postgraduate degree or diploma course should have performed very well in their graduation. Besides academic record, certificates in sports, debates and other extracurricular activities are always an added advantage because foreign universities look forward to students with all-round personality, who can contribute to the college.

You will need to get reference letters from your teachers, who can write an impressive personality statement for you. You might be asked to produce a certificate of financial status, signed by a chartered accountant.

 

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At what levels do foreign universities absorb students?

 

Most of the foreign universities admit international students at both the undergraduate level and for postgraduate degree courses. The US universities, however, admit students to their postgraduate programmes if they have completed four years of graduation. French state universities take international students both for graduate studies and for postgraduate studies. The German universities and institutes of higher learning (Fachhochschulen) also welcome international students for their undergraduate degree programmes.

In Australia , Indian students can apply for a bachelor’s degree with Honours (four to seven years), Bachelors (three to six years), advance diploma (three years), diploma (one to two years) or certificates I-IV if they have done their 10+2. They can apply for Master’s degree, graduate diploma (one to two years) or graduate certificate after they have done their graduation.

 

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When should I start the procedure for applying in foreign Universities ?

Ideally, you should start inquiring about the right university for your subject choice at least 10 to 12 months before the commencement of the session. Since you are planning to go to a distant land, you should not hurry zeroing in on a particular university. Ascertaining the credentials of a university from expatriate contacts, representatives of different countries and other sources will be the first step, which will take some time. During this period, you should also strengthen your case by appearing for different tests required by foreign universities, like TOEFL, SAT, GRE, etc. Your next step will be to procure application forms from that university, fill it properly (and get all the documents mentioned on the form), send it to the university and wait for the response. Once the international students’ office of that university is satisfied about your credentials, it will send you the admission notice. Once you get it, apply for a student’s visa to the concerned embassy, again a time-consuming process.

 

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What is the difference between MBA, PGDM and PGDBM, and which one is really worthwhile?

 

I am a IIIrd year student of Pune University. I want to pursue management. But I get confused between MBA, PGDM and PGDBM. 

There’s not much of a difference. MBA is a two-year masters programme in management. PGDBM is postgraduate diploma in business management. PGDM is postgraduate diploma in management. Like MBA, these are two-year programmes. All the three are at par and the nomenclature is cosmetic. What makes the difference is the institute from where you are pursuing management  studies. You should join only a reputed institute, as these courses are quite expensive, and your job prospects will depend to some extent on the institute tag. We suggest that you join a reputed management programme, like those offered by IIM, XLRI, FMS, TISS, etc.

 

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The road to glamour

 

I have just completed class XI. I want that after XII I should join a course in hospitality. I get very attracted by the glamour of the hotels, but my parents tell me I am not suited for that profession. They say an introvert like me cannot make a success in this field. Please tell me, what are the necessary qualities. Are these qualities tested for admission to training institutes too?

 

Qualities that make one successful in this profession are pleasant personality, outgoing temperament and adaptability. Being an introvert does not mean you cannot be successful in this field. There are certain departments like the front office, which require good interpersonal skills. But you can join any function, such as food and beverage, personnel, etc. One quality that is very essential is grooming. Leading hotels have a manual stipulating dress code and hairstyle – down to the types of ear-rings and bangles that are permitted. One thing you should bear in mind is that behind glamour is hard work and rigorous discipline. You should also be prepared to work at any hour of the day.

It’s good you want to get an early training, right after XII. There is a joint entrance test for the 19 chapters of National Council for Hotel Management & Catering Technology, New Delhi. The test is designed to measure your general mental ability, analytical ability, numerical aptitude and English language ability. The interview will test how social and pleasant you are.

 

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MCA after Graduation

I am doing my graduation from Punjab University. I want to do MCA after graduation. What is the eligibility for this course and what are the job prospects?

Master in Computer Applications is a postgraduate programme in computers. Some universities / colleges call it postgraduate diploma in computer application or postgraduate diploma in information technology. To enter this programme, you should be a graduate in any discipline and should have studied maths, at least, till senior secondary.

Some of the top universities offering this course are Delhi University, JNU, Pune University, Roorkee University and BHU, Apart from these, there are 165 government-recognised institutes throughout the country offering this course. The entrance exams are usually held between February and June. The focus in these exams is on higher maths, logical reasoning and statistics. A whole gamut of opportunities exist for you after MC, from being a systems manager and web designer to becoming a software architect for big companies like Infosys and Microsoft.

 

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Higher dreams

What do I do in this dog-eat-dog world where there is no future sans a high-profile education?

You are right when you say that you need an education. You can complete your education as you work through a distance education programme. The Indira Gandhi Open University (IGNOU) offers many courses in different disciplines at the graduate and post-graduate levels. Many universities across the country, including Delhi University, offer correspondence courses in variety of subjects.

All you need to do is get a form, fill it up and work towards your graduation and post-graduation in the subject of your choice and at your own pace. There is no need to feel low. You have the essential ingredient of motivation and desire to acquire a higher education. With your capacity to work hard and diligently, you will achieve your goals.

The past, however bad it may have been, cannot be set right. So treat it as a bad dream that is best forgotten. Concentrate on what you want to do. Set clear goals clear and start working towards them now. I am sure no one can stop you from 

 

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Shame

My classmates teasing me that I am in love with a boy. What should I do?

Just forget the incident for the time being and don’t give too much importance to your friends. The more you react and show how annoyed you are, the more your classmates will trouble you. So ignore them and behave as if their teasing does not affect you at all. There is no need for you to feel guilty. Interact with your friends with your head held high. Your confidence will silence the gossip mongers.

 

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Ten down

I wish to take sciences but I have got less marks. What to do now?

I do not think that you should be so worried. Other than those 10 marks, you seem to have done as well as you regularly do through out the year. Keep calm and wait for the results to be announced. Until the marks are announced, stay calm. Just in case you aren’t allotted the science stream, speak to your principal and class teacher to let them know of your keen interest in science and lack of inclination for the other streams. I am sure things will work out for you. Positive thinking is most important for you.

 

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Make no bones

How do we tackle the mess at home?

 

It would please your grandmother if you her as much affection and support as you can. She shouldn’t be left to feel neglected or even rejected. Try and help your mother too. This should not be a problem, as one does not study every minute of the day. So use your break time to help your mother with the household chores. Spend time with your grandmother and make her comfortable during her confinement. This will make you and your brother feel good and bring about an atmosphere of peace at home.

 

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Do you think I can trust a boy again?

I can understand your concern. At the present moment, I would suggest that you go slow as you have not met this person but only talked to him over the phone. You are still young and studying; involvement in such relationships may lead once again to another negative experience, which may affect your studies adversely. There is no harm in continuing correspondence with this person without committing yourself to anything until you meet him and also make your parents meet him. The question is not whether you can trust, but whether you can make a proper judgment about his personality and him as a person, because (1) you have not met him and (2) you are still not ready enough to make such judgments.

 

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Against the tide

How can a student risk being a non-conformist in school and still retain high levels of confidence to do well in life?

Non-conformist does not mean non-performer. A student can be a non-conformist but be a very good student, scoring excellent marks or even average to above average marks. A non-conformist is one who does not agree or conform to all the rules and regulations of the school and when questioned is able to convincingly explain his stand. This is possible only for a person who has the self-confidence to put across his points of view very clearly even though they may not conform to the views of the school. I hope you now understand what was written in that report.

 

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How do I win friends?

 Yes, you do need friends with whom you could share your joys and excitement. For someone as talented and intelligent as you, making friends will not be a difficult task. Jealousy could be one of the reasons why your friends do not share information and books with you. You may have to do some introspection. Ask yourself whether there is something about you that puts them off. Do you have a haughty posture? Do you keep to yourself? Do you help others In studies when they ask you a clarification? Do you give the impression that scoring marks is all that matters to you?  Try and find the answers to these questions. Expect nothing from friends and be willing to give them everything. You will soon discover true friendship.

 

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Headed for the Woods

I want to join the Indian Forest Service. Is a course in forest management essential for that? Please give details.

Qualification in forest management is not essential for entry to Indian Forest Service (IFS). The Union Public Service Commission, that recruits candidates to the service, considers graduation in botany, zoology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and veterinary science. The exam notification comes in February and the examination is held in August, every year.

You will have to appear for two compulsory subjects i.e., English and general knowledge, two optional subjects. Certain combinations are not allowed in the exam, like agricultural and animal husbandry.

Besides the written exam and interview, one has to appear for a physical fitness test. Make candidates have to walk a distance of 25 kilometers in four hours, and female candidates have to cover 14 kilometers in the same time.

After a training schedule in Indian Forest College, Dehra Dun, and at the Lal Bahadur Shastri Academy, Mussourie, one is appointed as assistant conservator of forests.

 

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Top Cop

I am in my second year. If I want to join the police services, what subjects should I take up, and how should I prepare for the entrance exam?

Recruitment to the Indian Police Services is done by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), over two stages: preliminary, or qualifying stage; and the main stage. This entrance test is common for IAS, IPS and IFS, P&T, and a host of other central government services.

The choice of subject at graduation level or the choice of the optional subject for the examination doesn’t make a difference for selection to the IPS. Many students choose new subjects thinking that certain subjects are more scoring. But it’s usually better to opt for a subject you have been studying all along.

Since you won’t have much time after the results of the preliminary exams are announced, it would be better if you start preparation for prelims and the main examination simultaneously.

 The preliminary exam is objective type, and has two sections: General studies of 150 marks and one optional subject of 450 marks. For general studies, you should read thoroughly NCERT books of history, economics, political science and geography for classes XI and XII. You should read, at least, one newspaper everyday, maintain a diary and make entries in different sections like sports, state, politics, economy and so on. Go through the dairy regularly. In fact, you should begin this exercise from this year itself.

For the optional, select the subject that you would be taking for the main exam. In each topic of that subject, get to the basics, so that you can answer the objective-type questions of the prelims, as well as the subjective queries in the main exam. For the mains, you should develop the habit of writing long answers and improve your written expressions. This is important for the two optional subjects that you will have to take up, as well as English, regional language, as well as the essay that you will have to attempt. Show your answers to a lecturer and get feedback. At the interview stage, your power of judgement and your understanding of the world around you will be assessed

There are chances though, that in the next few years there will be radical changes in the entrance method, following the recommendations of the Alagh Committee to UPSC. It’s possible tat by the time you do apply, the subject-specific tests may have been replaced by psychometric tests.

 

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Alien Tongue

I am a student of class XII and I am keen to learn a foreign language. What is the appropriate stage to learn a foreign language? Can one get a job on the basis of a foreign language?

 

From the perspective of knowing a different country or culture, you can start learning a foreign language as early as class V. your age will not prevent you from grasping the basics of a foreign language. Early learning encourages one to move beyond mere literacy and read the original works of literature. In fact, institutes like Max Mueller Bhawan (for German) and Alliance Francaise (for French) rather than follow a translation approach, encourage you to communicate in the new language from day one.

However, from the job perspective, it is better to study a language once you are clear about your career objectives. Direct job opportunities in foreign languages are limited to teaching at school and college-level or at foreign language institutes. You can also take up translation. But as a translator, the chances are that you will come across more work for translating personal documents or instruction material for some machine. The more challenging task of translating literary works will be available only if you are exceedingly good at the language.

Then there is the job of interpretation. The new age economy is opening up avenues for interpreters, who have good spoken language and communication skills, in travel and tourism, hospitality, public relations, event management, and so on. However, in most jobs, foreign language is a time-consuming and costly affair. You will tend to forget it if you do not constantly practice that language or use its vocabulary regularly.

 

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Soaring Ambition

What qualifications should I possess in order to become an airline pilot? What is the career scope of a pilot?

The job of an airline pilot offers a glamorous lifestyle with great salaries and the opportunities to travel. But becoming a pilot is also a very expensive proposition. You have to get a commercial pilot’s license (CPL) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Only those who have done science with PCM at the +2 are eligible to apply.

You have to register 250 flying hours with a flying club like Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Udan Academy, Rae Bareli; Pinjore Aviation Club, Ambala; and School of Aviation Science and Technology, Safdarjang Airport, New Delhi, and clear a set of exams, before you are given the license. You can get the CPL from abroad too and get it converted to the Indian pilot license. While getting into Air India or Indian Airlines may not be that easy, a number of private and foreign airlines do offer attractive salaries to their pilots-starting from Rs 45,000 for  trainee pilot to Rs 165,000 for confirmed pilots. Initially, you have to work as a co-pilot and it’s only with experience that you are given the command of a flight.

However, the course is very expensive, around Rs five lakh. To check your suitability for the job, ask yourself whether you are capable of quick thinking, can you keep calm during a crisis, whether you have quick reflexes, are you comfortable working with machines, how physically fit are you. It’s an erratic life-you have to report at unearthly hours, be away from home for days on end. so in all likelihood, you will watch Diwali festivities from your cockpit, rather than from the courtyard of your home.

 

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Up and Away

What is the eligibility criteria and procedure for becoming a fighter pilot

aptitude test and why is it a necessary prerequisite for all candidates?

There are two entry levels for the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force: Straight after completion of your 10+2 with physics, chemistry and mathematics (PCM), with a minimum of 65 percent marks. You can apply to the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla, where army and navy recruits receive a three year training. An additional 18-month training will be impaired at the Air Force Academy, Hyderabad; Alternatively, on graduating in mathematics, physics and/or chemistry, you can seek recruitment through the Combined Defence Services examination. Once you clear this examination you will be sent to  service of your choice.

Do remember that irrespective of the entry-level, you need to be at least 5 feet 8 inches in height and have to appear for the pilot aptitude battery test. This test gauges your reflexes-so vital to a life and death situation. Unfortunately, those who fail the pilot aptitude battery test will not be allowed to reappear. There is no second attempt. However, one could still be considered for ground duties.

 

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Dramatic Vocation

I want to make a career in acting. I tried to find about a place where I could learn acting, but in vain. Please give me all the information. Also, how good is the scope in acting, or is TV the only option after actors?

Most youngsters today enroll for an acting course because it opens avenues in the TV and the film world. A good grounding in acting is desired for success in TV and films, because an acting school teaches you clarity of language, dictation, body movements and variations in expressions.

Also. Making a living solely out of theatre is very difficult. A better approach is to take up some good productions on TV.

The National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, is the hub of theatre activity in India. It has a three-year course, admission to which is granted after graduation. The list of NSD alumni is the who’s who of acting in India from Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah to Manoj Bajpai and Ashutosh Rana. In fact, the NSD course is equivalent to post-graduation, after which you are eligible to apply for an MPhil and teach in an Indian university. Admission to the three-year post-graduate diploma course is on the basis of a week-long workshop at NBSD.

You can contact the registrar, National School of Drama, Bahawalpur House, Bhagwan Das Road, New Delhi for admission details.

Bharatendu Natya Academy, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow offers a two year diploma course in theatre.

Admission is on the basis of an audition and aptitude test, in June.

Universities like Osmania University in Hyderabad, Madurai Kamraj University, Devi Ahilya University in Indore and Maharaj Sayajirao University in Baroda conduct PG courses.

 

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Chronicling Battles

I have appeared for my standard X boards this year and aspire to become a war journalist for a TV channel. Please tell me which subjects I should opt for the 10+2 level, and in college. Also, which college should I join after 10+2. What qualities should a person have to become a good journalist?

It’s good to see that you are focused and have very clear goals. However, there is no permanent vocation like war journalism. As a TV journalist you will need to cover all kinds of happenings, perhaps war too.

You could either do a general degree course in the sciences or arts, go on to doing a post-graduate diploma in TV journalism, and then take the plunge. Meanwhile, subscribe to defence journals, read books on war history, visit the archives to see TV reportage on war, watch TV shows on wars and stuff the internet on related subjects.

If you are keen to take the plunge right now, join a degree course in journalism, which is offered by a number  of modules in the course, TV module being one of them. While doing your course, you can join a local news media organization to get a hang of how the media works. Since you are based in Nasik, you might have  to think in terns of moving to a metro for better opportunities in TV.

Since you are keen o joining the electronic media, you need to be fluent in a spoken language-Hindi, English or any regional language. You also need to be presentable. You need to have a nose for news. The media is a very competitive place and it’s who gets the story first that matters. Take a cue from Anita Pratap, who has been there right in the heat of the Afghan war, and was the first TV journalist to report from the Siachen Glaciet. The working hours may definitely be odd and that you will need to be daring and gutsy.

 

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I am keen to pursue a career in home science-particularly in nutrition. What are the career options in this field?

Dietetics and nutrition are now stepping-stones to high-profile careers in the government, with foreign agencies, at hospitals, schools, colleges, health centers and even in the media. Dietetics is the study of balanced food and helps in identifying the food value of different items and problems arising out of their deficiency. Meaningful job opportunities exist in the field of research, treatment and cure, and community nutrition.

Government and foreign agencies, and hospitals run research  projects. A host of community-based projects are functioning with the help of government and foreign aid. International agencies like the World Food Programme have operations across the globe and recruit nutritionists for the planning and implementation of their programmes. Multinationals like Kellogs and Nestle require nutritionists for their research and quality control departments. Hospitals require dieticians to plan menus for patients and keep a quality check on the canteen food. Fitness centers in cities also employ dieticians on their panels. Niche publications and newspapers too devote a lot of space to health and nutrition, hence the scope for writing on such themes. Of course, one can also teach the topic at a school or college.

 

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